Of the many, many contentions around the Club World Cup, few have quite matched the qualification process for one team in particular. Joining a field of continental champions and some of the best performing teams from around the planet is a side who have never won their domestic league nor a top-level international trophy in their brief history.

FIFA said the Club World Cup, billed as "The Best v The Best," would be merit-based. Then it gave a spot to Messi's Inter Miami before the playoffs even began.

Lionel Messi and Inter Miami face tough Group A opponents Al Ahly, Porto, and Palmeiras at the Club World Cup. The tournament kicks off Saturday at Hard Rock Stadium.