Historic Comeback: Messi Masterpiece Seals First MLS Club World Cup Victory for Inter Miami
Inter Miami CF achieved a landmark victory in the FIFA Club World Cup, defeating Portuguese giants FC Porto 2-1 in Atlanta. This momentous win, secured by a stunning Lionel Messi free-kick in the second half, marks the first time an MLS team has beaten European opposition and registered a win in the tournament’s history. The hard-fought comeback puts Inter Miami in a strong position to advance from Group A.
Early Setback: Porto Takes the Lead
The match at Mercedes-Benz Stadium saw FC Porto start strongly and take an early lead. In the 8th minute, following a VAR review for contact inside the box, a penalty was awarded after Inter Miami defender Noah Allen was judged to have fouled João Mário. Spain international Samu Aghehowa stepped up and coolly converted the spot-kick, beating goalkeeper Oscar Ustari to put Porto ahead 1-0.
Porto continued to press for the remainder of the first half, creating several dangerous opportunities. Maxi Falcón made a crucial goal-line clearance to deny Rodrigo Mora, while Alan Varela saw a long-range effort hit the post before bouncing safely off Ustari’s back. Porto goalkeeper Claudio Ramos was also kept busy, making key saves against Inter Miami chances, including one from Luis Suárez. Despite trailing at halftime, Miami felt they had shown glimpses and were perhaps unlucky not to be level.
Second Half Resurgence: Miami Fights Back
Inter Miami emerged from the break with renewed urgency and quickly found their rhythm. Just two minutes into the second half, in the 47th minute, Telasco Segovia equalized for the MLS side. Receiving a cut-back from Marcelo Weigandt, Segovia unleashed a brilliant first-time finish that found the back of the net, stunning the Porto defense.
Messi Magic: A Trademark Winner
The decisive moment arrived in the 54th minute. Lionel Messi, fouled just outside the penalty area by Rodrigo Mora in a central position described as “the most Lionel Messi territory,” stepped up to take the resulting free-kick. With the Atlanta crowd chanting his name, the Argentine superstar curled a sublime left-footed strike over the wall and into the top-right corner, a trademark “golazo” that put Inter Miami ahead 2-1.
This goal was not just spectacular; it carried significant milestones for Messi:
His 68th direct free-kick goal of his illustrious career.
His first free-kick goal in the Club World Cup, scoring from set pieces in his 12th different competition.
- His 50th goal for Inter Miami in just his 61st appearance for the club.
- www.theguardian.com
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Unsurprisingly, Messi was awarded the Player of the Match for his performance, recognized for being the best outfield player on the pitch and delivering a “GOAT-worthy performance” that underscored his continued status as one of the world’s best players, even days before his 38th birthday.
Defensive Stand Secures the Points
After taking the lead, Inter Miami shifted focus, prioritizing defending their advantage. They employed a compact shape, particularly late in the game, and demonstrated resilience under pressure. Porto pushed hard for an equalizer, bringing on offensive substitutes and creating several chances, notably for Samu Aghehowa, who missed a volley and saw a header go wide.
Miami’s defense, marshaled effectively and supported by goalkeeper Oscar Ustari and crucial blocks and clearances, held firm. The team’s defensive effort in securing the lead reflected the style often associated with manager Javier Mascherano. Despite a strong performance from Porto goalkeeper Claudio Ramos, who made multiple saves throughout the match, Miami saw out the victory, including navigating seven minutes of added time. The match also saw injuries force early substitutions for Marcelo Weigandt and Ian Fray.
Historical Context and Tournament Outlook
This 2-1 victory is a monumental moment for Major League Soccer and North American football. It marks the first time a Concacaf team has defeated a European side in the Club World Cup and provides MLS with a significant result to highlight its growing global competitiveness.
The win follows scoreless draws for both Inter Miami (against Al Ahly) and Porto (against Palmeiras) in their opening Group A matches. Inter Miami now sits on four points alongside Palmeiras. Their upcoming final group match against the Brazilian side will be crucial. A draw would guarantee Inter Miami’s passage to the knockout rounds, while a win could secure top spot in the group. For Porto, the defeat leaves them winless and facing the prospect of an early and potentially embarrassing exit from the tournament.
Despite a 3:00 pm kickoff time on a working day, the crowd in Atlanta grew throughout the match, reaching nearly 32,000, creating an atmosphere that felt overwhelmingly supportive of Inter Miami, highlighted by an “overwhelmingly pink crowd.” The team’s performance drew praise, with Messi acknowledging the collective effort and Weigandt describing Messi’s goal as “Extraordinary” and praising his character off the pitch.
The historic comeback victory, powered by a moment of characteristic Messi brilliance, provides a significant boost for Inter Miami and signals their intent in this premier global competition.
