FIFA CLUB WORLD CUP FIFACWC: Mascherano Declares Messi Fit For Porto Clash

Despite displaying signs of pain during training, Inter Miami coach Javier Mascherano declared that Lionel Messi will be fine to play against Porto at the Club World Cup on Thursday.

Mascherano affirmed that Messi was fit for Miami’s second Group A game in Atlanta, despite a video that surfaced showing the veteran attacker caressing his left leg during the Wednesday session.

“On the trip from Miami to Atlanta I saw that came out in some places, but Leo is fit, he trained, he completed the whole session,” Mascherano told reporters.

“He was touching his leg, sometimes people touch themselves, but there’s no problem, he’s fit and obviously he will play tomorrow.”

After missing the first 0-0 tie against Al Ahly due to injury, the coach announced that Jordi Alba, Messi’s old Barcelona colleague, was available.

“We’ll evaluate what’s best for us, if he starts or not,” said the coach. “Actually, I already know but I won’t tell you.”

Mascherano, meanwhile, stated that holding onto the ball would be crucial against Porto of Portugal, a frequent Champions League participant who will probably give the MLS squad a tough test.

“We have players who feel much more comfortable when they’re in possession, dominating, and having control of the game through the ball,” said the Argentine.

“Of course, we’re facing a team that also is used to doing that, who are a high level side.

“But on the pitch we’re 11 against 11, we’ll try to shut down their strengths, expose their weaknesses and try to have a great game to get a good result.”

Former Barcelona teammate Sergio Busquets, a midfielder for Inter Miami and a part of Spain’s 2010 World Cup winning squad, acknowledged that his team would have tough competition in the Mercedes-Benz stadium.

“They have very good players, they have reinforced and we know that it will be very difficult,” Busquets told reporters.

“They are a team that compete every year for their league, against other great teams like Sporting and Benfica.

“We will try to be as solid as possible, stick close together and try to do the best we can as a team.

“If we get chances, we have the individuals (who can finish them), but above all we have to be solid and keep a clean sheet.”


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