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**Fifa’s Club World Cup 2025: Messi’s Inter Miami Receives Controversial Invitation**

The expanded 32-team FIFA Club World Cup is set to take place in the United States, promising a global clash of footballing titans. While qualification for most teams hinged on winning their respective continental championships or high rankings based on consistent performance, FIFA’s decision to grant a spot to Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami has stirred controversy.

For over a year, FIFA held open a “host country” spot with no clear criteria for selection. In a surprise move, FIFA president Gianni Infantino announced Inter Miami’s inclusion, citing their success in winning the MLS regular-season league—despite the fact the actual champions are decided by the play-offs.

This decision has sparked outrage, with rival franchises feeling slighted by the choice. Others have pointed out inconsistencies, noting the different qualifications in other confederations and excluding teams such as Liverpool that earned higher ranking. While MLS chief Don Garber has hinted FIFA ultimately made the call unilaterally, Inter Miami co-owner Jorge Mas dismissed any controversy. Despite the qualification issues, the tournament is set to proceed as planned, with Messi poised to star in Infantino’s long-desired competition.

The tournament will feature representation from all six FIFA confederations. Europe (UEFA) leads with 12 spots, followed by South America (CONMEBOL) with six. North and Central America (CONCACAF), Asia (AFC) and Africa (CAF) each have four spots, and Oceania (OFC) has one. LAFC earned a spot after Club Leon was disqualified because of multi-ownership regulations.

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