MLS teams are regarded to be subpar among all the playing teams in the FIFA Club World Cup, considering that soccer isn’t that much of a popular sport in the country. However, expectations are brewing hot as the United States begin to play host for one of the biggest soccer club events in the world, and American teams aren’t showing up to live to the hype at this point.

Nothing has been easy for the MLS teams heading into the Club World Cup. For starters, Inter Miami could not come up with a goal against Al Ahly, and it ended up in a massive draw. LAFC was hammered by Chelsea as expected, leading up to a 2-0 clean sheet win. But what was more surprising is the fact that the Seattle Sounders managed to score a goal out of all three MLS teams, despite losing to Botafogo, 2-1.

Matchday 2 won’t come until a few days, and this just means that there’s a lot to expect from MLS teams trying to show that they can find ways to win even at least once in these FIFA Club World Cup matches. After all, it is not always that you get a chance to host such a historic event in the sport.

Are MLS Teams that Bad?

MLS teams have faced challenges in the FIFA Club World Cup, as evidenced by recent performances from the three participating teams. In the opening match of the 2025 Club World Cup, Inter Miami and Al Ahly played to a goalless draw. Despite Messi's efforts, including a near-miss in stoppage time, Inter Miami couldn't secure a win.

Lionel Messi was involved in a controversial incident where he appeared to headbutt Al Ahly's Yasser Ibrahim during a corner kick, though no disciplinary action was taken.

On the other hand, the Seattle Sounders lost 2–1 to Botafogo in their Club World Cup debut. Botafogo's Jair Cunha and Igor Jesus scored first-half headers. Seattle responded with a deflected goal by Cristian Roldan but couldn't find an equalizer. Despite increased pressure in the second half, including a crucial save by Botafogo's goalkeeper in stoppage time, Seattle fell short.

Lastly, LAFC suffered a 2–0 defeat to Chelsea in their Club World Cup opener. Chelsea's Pedro Neto and Enzo Fernandez scored, with Hugo Lloris making key saves for LAFC. Despite generating some offensive pressure, LAFC couldn't capitalize on their chances, leading to that tough loss.

Can MLS Teams Answer the Call?

It’s not much all about battling hard and winning, but also getting some points. Suffice to say, LAFC is in danger of being eliminated with a loss and not a single goal scored. Seattle has logged a goal to the differential, while Inter Miami has a strong chance with points split in their 0-0 draw with Al Ahly.

However, Inter Miami is going up against Porto, one of the toughest teams in Portugal. Seattle, on the other hand, will battle the gritty Atletico Madrid in their next showdown. LAFC may have a strong chance to claim massive points and bounce back with ES Tunis set as their next opponent.

This is a prime chance for MLS teams to prove that they have what it takes to win. After all, this is the biggest stage that the clubs can play in with bigger stakes at hand.