Al Ahly head coach Jose Riveiro has reportedly admitted there is nothing his team can do to prepare to face someone like Lionel Messi.
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Al Ahly faces Inter Miami in the opening game of the FIFA Club World Cup and both sides have put in hard work in preparation for the historical game.
The Red Devils were beaten on penalties by Mexican side Pachuca in a warm-up game for the tournament and head coach Riveiro revealed the significance of Al Ahly's participation in the competition, Yallakora reported.
"I'm very excited and happy to be here," Riveiro said. "We're going to represent our club, our football, and our fans, and we're fully aware of the responsibility we have to perform well in the Club World Cup."
The former Orlando Pirates coach said it was important for his side to adapt to the strength of the teams in the tournament.
"We will be playing against very strong teams, and we arrived well in advance of the tournament to be able to adapt well, prepare properly, and ensure our readiness," he said.
Speaking on Messi, the Spaniard offered a realistic view of facing the eight-time Ballon D'Or winner.
"I don't think it's possible to prepare to face Messi," he said.
"You just have to try to be disciplined in front of him. There will be moments when we need to be more in control of the ball, even before the ball reaches Messi."
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He concluded: "Once the ball reaches Messi, he'll be as usual. A player who requires special marking, and I think he's been used to that kind of marking throughout his career, but he's part of a good collective team, with a good coach, so we'll be ready, we'll be well prepared, and we'll see what happens."
Photo: Facebook/Al Ahly SC
