Lionel Messi once again proved why he remains football’s ultimate game-changer, curling in a sublime free kick to lead Inter Miami to a dramatic 2-1 comeback victory over FC Porto in the FIFA Club World Cup group stage. The win not only marked a pivotal moment in the Herons’ campaign but also etched their name into the tournament’s history books with their first-ever competitive win over European opposition.
First Half: Porto Strike Early
The match at Mercedes-Benz Stadium began with high intensity, and it was FC Porto who drew first blood. In the 8th minute, a controversial VAR-reviewed penalty was awarded after Noah Allen was adjudged to have tripped Joao Mario in the box. Samu Aghehowa stepped up and slotted the ball past Oscar Ustari, despite the Miami keeper getting a hand to it.
Porto dominated much of the first half, with Rodrigo Mora and Alan Varela coming close to doubling the lead. Mora’s effort was heroically cleared off the line by Maximiliano Falcón, while Varela’s thunderous strike rattled the post and nearly ricocheted off Ustari into the net.
Second Half: Miami’s Resurgence
Inter Miami emerged from the break with renewed purpose. Just two minutes into the second half, Marcelo Weigandt delivered a pinpoint cross that Telasco Segovia rifled into the top corner to level the score at 1-1. The goal shifted momentum firmly in Miami’s favor.
Then came the moment of magic. In the 54th minute, after being fouled just outside the box by Rodrigo Mora, Messi stepped up with trademark composure. With the stadium chanting his name, the 37-year-old maestro curled a left-footed free kick over the wall and into the top right corner—his 68th career free-kick goal. The strike sent the crowd of nearly 32,000 into raptures and gave Miami a lead they would not relinquish.
Tactical Brilliance and Defensive Grit
Despite Porto registering 14 shots to Miami’s six, the MLS side showed remarkable efficiency and defensive discipline. Ustari, though less busy than in the previous match against Al Ahly, made a crucial save late in the game to preserve the lead. Inter Miami’s backline, marshaled by Falcón and supported by a tireless midfield, absorbed Porto’s pressure with resilience.
Messi’s Enduring Brilliance
Messi’s performance was a masterclass in leadership and precision. Beyond the goal, he orchestrated play, created chances, and inspired belief in his teammates. With 10 goals and 7 assists in 12 starts this year, the Argentine legend continues to defy age and expectations.
What’s Next?
With this win, Inter Miami move joint-top of Group A alongside Palmeiras, who also have four points. A draw in their final group match against the Brazilian giants would be enough to secure a place in the knockout stages. Porto, on the other hand, face a must-win scenario and need favorable results elsewhere to stay alive in the tournament.
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