Lionel Messi delivered another moment of brilliance on Thursday, scoring a trademark free-kick to seal Inter Miami’s shock 2-1 comeback win over Portuguese giants Porto in the Club World Cup.
The dramatic victory at Mercedes-Benz Stadium keeps the Major League Soccer (MLS) side firmly in contention for the knockout stage, with Inter Miami and Brazil’s Palmeiras now level on four points atop Group A. Porto and Al Ahly, who drew 0-0 in their opening match, remain on a single point each.
Samu Aghehowa gave Porto the early lead from the penalty spot in the eighth minute after a soft VAR-awarded foul on Joao Mario. The Portuguese side dominated the first half and could have extended their lead, with goalkeeper Oscar Ustari called into action multiple times and even helped by a goal-line clearance from Maximiliano Falcon.
But Inter Miami, co-owned by David Beckham and only formed in 2020, mounted a spirited comeback. Venezuelan midfielder Telasco Segovia struck early in the second half, smashing in Marcelo Weigandt’s cut-back to make it 1-1.
Just minutes later, Messi won and converted a free-kick in the 54th minute, curling a stunning effort into the top corner — a classic goal from the 37-year-old Argentine, who has quickly become the face of the tournament since joining Miami in 2023.
Despite a modest crowd at kickoff — the stadium was barely half-full due to the mid-afternoon start — nearly 32,000 fans eventually filled in, many eager to watch Messi in action. He didn’t disappoint, playing a central role throughout and linking up well with long-time teammate Luis Suarez.
Inter Miami’s defence, managed by former Argentina international Javier Mascherano, held firm in the final stages as Porto pressed for an equaliser. The Americans threw bodies in front of shots and held their nerve through seven minutes of stoppage time to secure the historic win.
This marks the first-ever competitive victory for an MLS club over European opposition, following LAFC’s earlier defeat to Chelsea in the same tournament.
“This is a massive moment for the club and for MLS,” said one Inter Miami official after the game. “To beat a team like Porto, with Messi leading the way — it’s something we’ll never forget.”
Inter Miami will now look to their final group match with qualification in sight, buoyed by the magic of their iconic No. 10.
