Inter Miami striker Benjamin Cremaschi has shared insights into his team’s performance following their opening match at the FIFA Club World Cup 2025.

The American side drew 1–1 with Egyptian giants Al Ahly in their tournament debut, held at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami.

“I think we had a pretty good second half,” Cremaschi said. “I think if we play how we did in the second half, then we could be a part of this tournament. Obviously, it's complicated to say after one game but we're happy with how we played.”

According to Cremaschi, Lionel Messi played a crucial role during halftime. “Messi told us to have long possessions with the ball as the midfield was open. He told us to focus on just keeping the ball... opportunities are going to fall. That's what we did and we had a better second half.”

“The atmosphere was amazing,” he added. “Being from Miami, it's amazing to see stadium like this so I'm super-happy about that.”

Inter Miami will face FC Porto in their second group match on June 19 in Atlanta.