FIFA’s decision to grant Inter Miami a place in the 2024 Club World Cup was highlighted as the team, led by Lionel Messi, was eliminated from the MLS playoffs in a surprising 3-2 loss to Atlanta United. Miami, which dominated the Eastern Conference in the regular season, faced Atlanta in a three-game series. After both teams secured 2-1 victories in earlier matches, Bartosz Slisz's late header in the third game ended Miami's postseason run. Despite this, Miami is set to participate in the expanded 32-team Club World Cup next summer, with FIFA awarding them a spot based on their first-place finish in the regular season standings, winning the Supporters' Shield. They will also open the tournament, which will take place in the U.S. from June 15 to July 13. FIFA President Gianni Infantino had praised Miami as a top team, though their early playoff exit has raised questions about the transparency of Club World Cup qualification criteria. The club will join Seattle Sounders as MLS representatives, with one more slot left for the Copa Libertadores champion.
