Lionel Messi proved to be the decisive factor once again, as his stunning free-kick secured a crucial 2-1 victory for Inter Miami over Portuguese giants FC Porto in their second FIFA Club World Cup Group A match. The win, coming after a disappointing goalless draw in their opener, ignites Inter Miami’s campaign and significantly boosts their hopes of advancing in the expanded tournament.
A Slow Start for the Herons
Inter Miami’s Club World Cup journey began with a somewhat flat 0-0 draw against Egyptian side Al Ahly. While Messi showed glimpses of his brilliance, he was unable to find the back of the net in that curtain-raiser. Against Porto, the early signs were equally challenging.
Porto, a formidable European outfit, started strongly and were rewarded in the 8th minute when Samu Omorodion converted a penalty after a VAR review. The early setback saw Inter Miami trailing 1-0 at halftime, with their attack struggling to convert chances despite Messi’s efforts to create them.
Second Half Resurgence and Segovia’s Equalizer
The second half, however, brought a renewed vigor from the MLS champions. Just two minutes after the restart, Telasco Segovia leveled the score for Inter Miami. A well-placed low cross from Marcelo Weigandt found Segovia, who unleashed a powerful first-time shot that left the Porto goalkeeper with no chance. This equalizer sparked a roar from the Atlanta crowd and visibly boosted Miami’s confidence.
Messi’s Trademark Magic Seals the Win
With the momentum shifting, it was only a matter of time before the legendary Lionel Messi left his indelible mark on the game. In the 54th minute, Messi was fouled just outside the penalty area, setting up a free-kick in a prime position. The crowd at Mercedes-Benz Stadium erupted in chants of “Messi! Messi! Messi!”
True to form, the Argentine maestro stepped up and curled a magnificent left-footed shot over the Porto wall and into the top right corner of the net. It was a vintage Messi free-kick, a goal of pure class that gave Inter Miami a 2-1 lead and sent the stadium into a frenzy. This was Messi’s first goal of the 2025 Club World Cup and his 50th goal for Inter Miami.
Defensive Resolve Secures Crucial Points
Following Messi’s goal, Porto pushed hard for an equalizer, bringing on substitutes and creating several dangerous opportunities. However, Inter Miami’s defense, anchored by goalkeeper Oscar Ustari and bolstered by the return of Jordi Alba from injury in the final minutes, stood firm. Despite Porto’s late pressure, Inter Miami held on for a historic 2-1 victory, marking their first-ever win in the FIFA Club World Cup.
This vital win propels Inter Miami up in Group A, setting the stage for a crucial final group-stage match against Brazilian club Palmeiras at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami. A victory in that game would secure their spot in the Round of 16, continuing their quest for Club World Cup glory. The performance against Porto, particularly the second-half comeback fueled by Segovia’s equalizer and Messi’s moment of brilliance, showcased Inter Miami’s resilience and their ability to compete against top international opposition.
