With just days to go before Al Ahly face Inter Miami in the opening match of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, coach Jose Riveiro has acknowledged that Lionel Messi will require special attention.
Riveiro’s official debut as Al Ahly boss could hardly come at a better moment, as it will serve as the curtain-raiser for the newly expanded Club World Cup on Saturday, 14 June.
The Egyptian giants are set to take on Inter Miami, who qualified for the competition as the host nation’s representative.
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This means Riveiro must now prepare to face a player of Messi’s calibre, supported by a star-studded cast including Luis Suarez, Sergio Busquets, and Jordi Alba.
Speaking to ESPN, Riveiro admitted that Messi will need special attention.
"I’m extremely happy to be here and to lead the team in the Club World Cup," said the Spaniard.
"We have a big responsibility to perform well in the tournament, and we’ll be playing against strong teams throughout.
"It’s very difficult to prepare for a match against Lionel Messi. The best you can do is to be disciplined when facing him. At times, we’ll need to control the ball before it even gets to Messi.
"Messi is a player who requires special attention when he has the ball. Of course, he’s used to being closely marked throughout his career, but ultimately, he’s part of a strong and exceptional team.
"We’ll be well prepared for this encounter and we’re looking forward to seeing what happens during the match."
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By Lukhanyo Mtuta
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