One of soccer's biggest stars kicks off the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup tonight as South Florida begins its test run for the 2026 World Cup. The drama on the field should be fascinating. Inter Miami, which was designated a host team after winning the MLS Supporters' Shield in 2024, has a star-studded roster featuring Luis Suarez, Sergio Busquets and, of course, Lionel Messi , who injured his ankle during Argentina's Copa America Final win here at Hard Rock Stadium in July 2024. They'll face Al-Ahly, kings of Egypt and African Champions League winners in 2021, 2022 and 2024. But eyes will also be on what happens off the pitch. Agents with Border Patrol and Immigration and Customs Enforcement will be on hand reportedly to aid with security, but tensions are high as ICE has been rounding up immigrants and legal citizens alike as part of President Donald Trump's mass deportation efforts. That may lead to Arab and Latin fans staying away, as evidenced by reports of incredibly low ticket prices and giveaways FIFA has implemented to pack seats.
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