Messi’s Masterclass Lifts Inter Miami to Historic Club World Cup Victory Over Porto
Lionel Messi reminded the world of his unmatched brilliance as he powered Inter Miami to a dramatic 2-1 comeback win over FC Porto in the FIFA Club World Cup. The Argentine superstar, with a stunning free-kick, notched his 50th goal for the club in just 61 appearances — a milestone moment that secured Miami’s first-ever win in the prestigious tournament.
The Group A encounter in Atlanta was full of energy and controversy, with both teams eager for a first victory after opening draws. The match burst into life just eight minutes in when VAR intervened to award Porto a penalty. Inter Miami defender Noah Allen was judged to have fouled João Mário in the box, and despite Óscar Ustari getting a firm hand on the ball, Samu Aghehowa’s well-placed strike gave the Portuguese side an early lead.
The goal came against the run of play, as Messi had already begun weaving his magic. The 37-year-old legend continuously troubled the Porto backline with his acceleration and vision, nearly setting up Luis Suárez for an equalizer. Suárez’s shot, however, was denied by Porto goalkeeper Cláudio Ramos, who had a busy night trying to contain Miami’s attacks.
Midfielder Benjamin Cremaschi also came close, forcing another fine save from Ramos. But it wasn’t just Miami knocking — Porto nearly doubled their lead through Alan Varela, whose powerful shot crashed against the post. The rebound fell kindly, but Ustari reacted superbly to keep the deficit at one.
A moment of drama followed when Sergio Busquets appeared to tug at Rodrigo Mora’s shirt inside the Miami box. Despite strong appeals, the referee waved play on, leaving Porto frustrated and Miami relieved.
The breakthrough for Inter Miami came swiftly after the interval. Telasco Segovia, a recent addition to Javier Mascherano’s squad, brought the game level in the 47th minute with a thunderous first-time finish. Marcelo Weigandt, who had been lively down the right, delivered a perfect low cross after a sweeping team move, and Segovia made no mistake with his finish from the edge of the six-yard box.
An unforgettable game for @InterMiamiCF!#FIFACWC
— FIFA Club World Cup (@FIFACWC) June 20, 2025
Just seven minutes later, the match flipped on its head — and the script wrote itself. Messi, with his very first shot of the game, stepped up for a free-kick from just outside the area. The technique, the power, the placement — all classic Messi. The ball curled around the wall and beyond Ramos’ reach into the top corner, sending the Inter Miami fans in the Mercedes-Benz Stadium into absolute ecstasy.
It was Messi’s 68th career free-kick goal, and one that may go down as one of the most important in Inter Miami’s short history.
Porto responded by throwing on attacking reinforcements, and their substitutes nearly made an instant impact. Gonçalo Borges found William Gomes in the box with a clever ball, but Gomes was quickly closed down by Ustari. Moments later, Samu rose highest to meet Mora’s cross, but his header drifted wide of the far post.
Despite Porto’s late push, Inter Miami held firm. Mascherano’s men showed maturity in the final stages, managing the game with calm possession and tactical discipline. Busquets anchored the midfield, while the backline — led by Sergii Kryvtsov and Tomás Avilés — stood tall under pressure.
The victory extends Inter Miami’s unbeaten run to five games in all competitions (three wins, two draws), moving them into second place in Group A behind Brazilian side Palmeiras. With the attack flowing and Messi in vintage form, Miami look increasingly like contenders in this year’s Club World Cup.
All to play for. #FIFACWC
— FIFA Club World Cup (@FIFACWC) June 20, 2025
For FC Porto, the result leaves them in a difficult position. Martín Anselmi’s side remain winless after two matches and now face a must-win final group game against Al Ahly. Despite flashes of quality, they failed to capitalize on early chances and couldn’t recover after Messi’s moment of brilliance.
As the final whistle blew, the focus shifted not just to the three points gained by Inter Miami, but to the ageless wonder of Lionel Messi. Still decisive, still magical, and still the man for the big moments — Messi continues to deliver when it matters most.
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