Tue Jun 24 00:40:00 UTC 2025: **Palmeiras Defender Fuels Messi-Ronaldo Rivalry Ahead of Club World Cup Clash**

**Doha, Qatar** – Ahead of the highly anticipated Club World Cup Group A match between Inter Miami and Palmeiras, Brazilian defender Murilo has stirred the pot by declaring his allegiance to Cristiano Ronaldo and vowing to celebrate like the Portuguese star if he scores.

Murilo, a key player for Palmeiras, revealed his admiration for Ronaldo in an interview with ESPN Brasil. “I’m on Team CR7,” he stated, praising Ronaldo’s discipline and competitive spirit. When asked if he would perform Ronaldo’s signature “Siu!” celebration should he find the back of the net against Inter Miami, he responded with a resounding “Yes, I will.”

The 28-year-old’s comments add a layer of symbolic rivalry to the match, pitting his admiration for Ronaldo against the presence of Lionel Messi, Inter Miami’s star player and Ronaldo’s longtime rival.

However, not all of Murilo’s teammates share his preference. Palmeiras’ full-back Vanderlan confessed to being “Team Messi,” admitting he has always admired the Argentine’s talent. “I will hide that I am on the Messi team,” Vanderlan said, “Since I was little, I have always seen him play, I have always liked him a lot, so I am on Team Messi. But on the field there is no such thing, you know… He is against us, he will be Palmeiras’ rival.” Vanderlan also acknowledged the difficulty of marking Messi, adding: “Messi is very difficult to mark, but the collective and individual work of our team will make the difference.”

Despite the divided loyalties within the Palmeiras camp, both Messi and Ronaldo have previously stated their rivalry remained on the pitch. Messi has expressed admiration for Ronaldo’s career and consistent performance at the highest level, underscoring their mutual respect as competitors.

The clash between Inter Miami and Palmeiras promises to be a thrilling encounter, with the added spice of the Messi-Ronaldo debate fueling the anticipation. The match will be held this monday.

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