What Happened
Inter Miami has advanced to the knockout stage of the FIFA Club World Cup and is set to face Paris Saint-Germain this weekend in the Round of 16. Midfielder Benjamin Cremaschi, 20, described this achievement as “huge,” emphasizing that Miami was the sole MLS team to progress from the group stage in the expanded competition format.
“Yes, it`s absolutely massive,” Cremaschi stated on The Overlap US podcast. “Honestly, most people probably didn`t expect us to get even a single point at this Club World Cup, and we weren`t looking the best with the squad we had previously. So, reaching this stage and performing and competing as we are is immense for the club.” He added, “It highlights the quality within our players when we are focused and driven by a strong ambition to win. This is truly significant for us, for MLS, and for everyone in the country. It places both MLS and Miami in a very strong position.”
Cremaschi`s Comments
Cremaschi acknowledged that facing Champions League winners Paris Saint-Germain will be a significant challenge for Miami. However, he expressed confidence in the Herons` ability to achieve a positive result, drawing inspiration from Botafogo`s earlier victory against PSG in the group stage.
“We are well aware they are the top team in Europe – that’s a fact,” Cremaschi elaborated. “We are prepared to compete with the same intensity we`ve shown. I don’t believe we should back down from any challenge. I feel we have been competing effectively, and we saw Botafogo succeed against them, so why couldn’t we?” He continued, “Botafogo is a team that competes fiercely, works hard, and defends very well. I think if we can emulate that approach – competing and playing our game – you never know what might happen. We might achieve something. And since we have nothing to lose, we will give it all and see the outcome.”
The 20-year-old also discussed his future with the USMNT (United States Men`s National Team). He noted that while he hasn`t been in recent contact with the senior team coach since January, his current focus is on performing with the U20 national team. The USMNT U20s finished first in their group and are scheduled to play Costa Rica in the Gold Cup quarterfinals on Sunday.
“No, I haven’t spoken to him since the January camp,” Cremaschi confirmed. “Honestly, my focus is entirely on the U20s right now. We have the World Cup approaching soon, and I feel I play a significant role in the team. So, for the moment, I really want to concentrate on the U20s and then see what the next step is regarding the senior team. Of course, I follow the senior team and their results. I’m happy for their success and hope they can go all the way.”
The Broader Context
Inter Miami`s success marks a significant milestone for both the club and Major League Soccer. The other two MLS representatives, Seattle Sounders and LAFC, were eliminated from the Club World Cup after finishing last in their respective groups.
What`s Next
Inter Miami is set to face Paris Saint-Germain in the Round of 16 of the FIFA Club World Cup on Sunday. The match will take place at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia.
