Lionel Messi leads Inter Miami to historic win as he spearheaded the Major League Soccer club to their first-ever victory in the FIFA Club World Cup, beating FC Porto 2-1 on Thursday in Atlanta. The Argentinian star’s performance included a remarkable free kick that marked his 50th goal for Inter Miami and the 68th free kick goal of his professional career.
This victory is a landmark moment not only for Inter Miami but for MLS as a whole, representing the league’s inaugural triumph in this elite, global competition. Messi, who has already claimed multiple Club World Cup titles with FC Barcelona in 2009, 2011, and 2015, continues to break new ground in American soccer.
Journey to FIFA Club World Cup: Inter Miami’s Recent Achievements
Messi, the reigning MLS MVP and 2024 Supporters’ Shield winner, has been instrumental in Inter Miami’s rise, including leading the club to the 2023 Leagues Cup title. Although the team’s continental ambitions were tempered by a semifinal exit in the CONCACAF Champions Cup to Vancouver Whitecaps, they have now shifted focus to proving themselves among the world’s elite at the Club World Cup.
Inter Miami’s participation in the expanded 2025 Club World Cup features three MLS teams this year, a first in the tournament’s history. Alongside Inter Miami, LAFC and Seattle Sounders qualified, although only Inter Miami secured a win in the early stages, making their achievement significant.
Match Highlights: Overcoming Early Deficit Against Porto
After conceding a penalty kick goal to Porto’s early lead in the 8th minute, Inter Miami responded quickly in the second half. Telasco Segovia scored the club’s first goal of the tournament in the 47th minute, followed by Messi’s decisive free kick in the 54th minute that sealed the comeback victory. This win places Inter Miami second in Group A after two matches, level on points with Palmeiras but trailing on goal difference.
The group standings set the stage for a crucial clash between Inter Miami and Palmeiras on Monday. Both teams will vie for first place in the group, with the top two teams advancing to the round of 16, positioning Inter Miami for a deeper run in the tournament.
Inter Miami Looks Ahead to Group-Deciding Match
Inter Miami’s success in this competition signals growing competitiveness for MLS clubs on an international stage. Head coach Javier Mascherano has guided the team through a challenging group, with the MLS side showing resilience and skill against strong opposition.
The upcoming match against Palmeiras will be pivotal for Inter Miami’s hopes of advancing, carrying significance not only for the club’s ambitions but also for the broader reputation of Major League Soccer globally. As the tournament progresses, the performance of Lionel Messi and his teammates will continue to draw worldwide attention.