Additionally, Lionel Messi will look to become the first-ever repeat Landon Donovan MLS MVP winner. He has 10 goals and six assists in 13 games this year, and scored a memorable free kick vs. Porto.

As was expected, this Club World Cup run reinforced how the Argentine superstar remains a singular force in global soccer.

“Now he’s 38 years old and people continue to buy a ticket to go and see him,” Mascherano said. “You have PSG as the champion in Europe, of everything, but people, the fans – even though he’s 38 years old – they’re still going to buy a ticket because they want to see Leo Messi.

“That is his grandeur and the legacy that he is bestowing upon all of us.”