The tournament is being played in eleven U.S. cities, including New York, Los Angeles, Houston and Atlanta, and will run through July 13. Only the top two in each group will advance to the round of 16, which has raised the intensity of each match.
Sports analysts point out that this tournament will serve as a dress rehearsal for the 2026 World Cup, also organized in part by the United States. Logistics, security and stadium capacity are under international observation.
Inter Miami, which represents MLS as host, will look to bounce back in its next match against Saudi Arabia's Al Hilal. FIFA has highlighted the organization of the event and the response of the public, with more than 60,000 in attendance at the debut at MetLife Stadium.