Lionel Messi scored a stunning free-kick to seal Inter Miami’s first-ever win at the FIFA Club World Cup, as they came from behind to defeat FC Porto 2-1 in a thrilling Group A clash.
The goal marked Messi’s 50th strike for Inter Miami since joining the MLS club in 2023 and his sixth in the Club World Cup, putting him just one behind Cristiano Ronaldo’s all-time record of seven in the tournament.
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Porto Strike First, But Miami Hit Back
Portuguese giants Porto took the lead in the 8th minute through Samu Aghehowa, who calmly converted a penalty past Oscar Ustari after a defensive lapse.
Porto dominated the first half, with Francesco Moura’s shot cleared off the line and Alan Varela rattling the post, but they failed to add to their early advantage.
Segovia and Messi Turn the Game Around
Inter Miami began their second-half revival with Telasco Segovia, who smashed home Marcelo Weigandt’s low cutback into the top corner, leveling the scoreline and shifting momentum.
Then came the moment of magic from Lionel Messi, who curled a trademark free-kick into the top right corner from the edge of the D, leaving Porto keeper Claudio Ramos no chance.
“It was classic Messi,” said Inter Miami head coach Gerardo Martino. “When we needed him, he delivered.”
Club World Cup Milestone for Messi
At 37 years old, Lionel Messi now has:
- 50 goals in 61 games for Inter Miami
- 6 Club World Cup goals (5 with Barcelona, 1 with Inter Miami)
- Equal standing with Karim Benzema and Gareth Bale on the Club World Cup scoring chart
- Just one goal shy of Cristiano Ronaldo’s tournament record (7)
His performance silenced critics who questioned his move to MLS after leaving PSG in 2023.
Busquets Shows His Class
Veteran midfielder Sergio Busquets, just weeks away from turning 37, impressed with his control and composure in midfield:
- 3 successful tackles (2nd most in team)
- 74 passes attempted, with 94.5% accuracy
- Commanded the tempo against younger Porto midfielders
What’s Next in Group A?
The final round of Group A fixtures kicks off Tuesday at 02:00 BST:
- Inter Miami vs Palmeiras in Florida
- Porto vs Al Ahly in New Jersey
Standings After Matchday 2:
- Palmeiras: 4 pts
- Inter Miami: 4 pts
- Porto: 1 pt
- Al Ahly: 1 pt
Qualification Scenarios:
- A draw will send both Palmeiras and Inter Miami to the last 16.
- Porto must win and hope the other match ends with a clear loser to progress.
Key Match Stats
- Goals: Aghehowa (8’), Segovia (61’), Messi (74’)
- Messi’s 68th career free-kick goal
- Busquets pass accuracy: 94.5%
- Attendance: 42,118 (Florida Stadium)