Inter Miami marked a historic milestone at the 2025 Club World Cup by securing their first-ever victory in the tournament, stunning European giants Porto 2-1 at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta. The MLS side, managed by Javier Mascherano, showcased resilience and flair, with Lionel Messi delivering a moment of pure magic that will be remembered for years to come.
The match began with a promising start for Inter Miami, as Lionel Messi set up Luis Suárez with a golden chance early on. However, Porto’s goalkeeper Claudio Ramos was quick to deny Suárez’s effort, keeping the visitors in the game. The Portuguese side soon turned the tide, earning a penalty in the eighth minute after Joao Mario’s dribble inside the box led to contact that was initially overlooked but ultimately confirmed by VAR. Spanish striker Samu Aghehowa stepped up and converted the spot-kick, putting Porto ahead 1-0.
Trailing at halftime, Inter Miami found themselves under pressure. The first half had seen Porto control much of the tempo, with Inter Miami struggling to create clear-cut chances and relying heavily on Messi’s creativity. Suárez had another one-on-one opportunity that was thwarted by Ramos, and just before the break, a Porto attack nearly doubled their lead, only for a crucial clearance off the line by Falcon to keep Miami in the game.
Coming out of the break with renewed determination, Miami wasted no time in leveling the score. Just 90 seconds into the second half, Telasco Segovia capitalized on a cut-back pass from Weigandt, firing a precise shot into the top corner to stun Porto and ignite the home crowd. This goal shifted momentum firmly in Miami’s favor, as Porto struggled to regain their composure and control of the match.
Seven minutes after the equalizer, the moment everyone had been waiting for arrived. Messi, the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner, stepped up to take a free kick from just outside the box. Calm and focused, the 37-year-old Argentine curled a sublime strike over the wall and into the top corner, leaving the goalkeeper helpless. This goal was not just a winner but a testament to Messi’s enduring brilliance, marking his 50th club goal and the 68th direct free-kick goal of his illustrious career.
From that point on, Inter Miami defended their lead with grit and determination. Porto came close to an equalizer when Samu headed a ball that skimmed the post, but Miami held firm. The match also saw the return of Jordi Alba from injury, adding experience and stability to the defense. Messi’s performance earned him the well-deserved MVP award for the match.
Following the victory, Mascherano expressed his pride and optimism about the team’s prospects. Speaking to DAZN, he said, “The guys did a fantastic show. They were working really, really hard against a team that has a lot of quality. But today we can show the world and to ourselves that we can compete against any team. The players understood that they can do it, that they can work together. When we are together, we can do something amazing. It’s great for the people of USA to see our team competing in this kind of tournament.”
This win places Inter Miami on the brink of advancing to the knockout phase of the Club World Cup, with the team now sitting second in Group A with four points. Their next challenge comes against Brazilian powerhouse Palmeiras, who earlier secured a 2-0 victory over Al Ahly, featuring Chelsea-bound teenager Estevao. The upcoming match, scheduled for Monday, June 23, 2025, at Miami’s Hard Rock Stadium, promises to be a thrilling encounter. A draw would see both teams qualify for the Round of 16, while a win would crown the victor as group leaders.
Inter Miami’s journey in the tournament has been a rollercoaster so far. After a goalless draw in their opener against Al Ahly, the win over Porto has revitalized their campaign and boosted confidence. The team’s lineup, boasting seasoned stars like Messi, Suárez, Sergio Busquets, and Jordi Alba, complemented by emerging talents such as Federico Redondo and Tomás Avilés, has shown a blend of experience and youthful energy that could prove decisive going forward.
The significance of this victory extends beyond just points and progression. Inter Miami became the first MLS club to defeat a European side in an official competition, a landmark achievement that has resonated across the soccer world. It underscores the growth and increasing competitiveness of MLS on the global stage, and with Messi leading the charge, the club’s ambitions are sky-high.
The atmosphere inside the Mercedes-Benz Stadium was electric, with jubilant scenes as fans witnessed Messi’s magic live. The Argentine maestro’s ability to defy age and deliver crucial moments remains unparalleled, and his free-kick goal was a reminder of why he is considered one of the greatest players of all time.
Looking ahead, the upcoming clash with Palmeiras will test Inter Miami’s mettle. Palmeiras, fresh from a solid win over Al Ahly, will be eager to assert their dominance in the group. Both teams have a lot to play for, and the match could very well decide the group’s fate.
For now, though, Inter Miami can savor a historic victory and the sense of belief that comes with it. Mascherano’s words capture the mood perfectly: when united, this team can achieve something truly remarkable. As the Club World Cup unfolds, all eyes will be on Miami to see if they can continue this inspiring run and make a deep impact on the tournament.
