O Benfica é o único clube português confirmado na segunda edição da Messi Cup, prestigiada competição de futebol jovem que decorrerá em Miami, na casa do Inter Miami, entre 25 de outubro e 1 de novembro.

O regresso do torneio para 2026 foi anunciado pelo próprio Lionel Messi através de um vídeo divulgado nas suas redes sociais. Lançada pelo astro argentino em 2025, a prova vai reunir este ano 16 das melhores academias sub-16 do mundo.

Representando nove países e três continentes, os 16 emblemas vão disputar um total de 48 jogos até ser coroado o vencedor. O River Plate, atual detentor do troféu, regressa como convidado para tentar revalidar o título.

A competição contará com uma forte constelação de gigantes mundiais. Além das águias e do River Plate, a lista de participantes inclui clubes como Barcelona, Chelsea, Manchester City, Atlético de Madrid, Inter de Milão, Arsenal, Ajax e Boca Juniors.

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O regresso ao piso rápido: quem chega mais forte ao US Open?