Lionel Messi delivered a moment of magic on Thursday night, scoring a sublime free kick to hand Inter Miami a landmark 2-1 victory over European giants FC Porto in the FIFA Club World Cup.
The goal—Messi’s first of the expanded tournament—propelled the Major League Soccer side to four points, placing them level with Brazil’s Palmeiras at the top of Group A. A draw in their final group match on Monday will be enough to book a spot in the Round of 16.
The loss leaves FC Porto and Egypt’s Al Ahly trailing with a point each, both now needing wins and favourable results to advance.
In another shock result, Brazilian club Botafogo stunned reigning European champions Paris Saint-Germain with a 1-0 win at Pasadena’s Rose Bowl Stadium.
Palmeiras, meanwhile, secured a 2-0 win over Al Ahly in a weather-disrupted encounter that saw a 40-minute delay due to severe conditions. Elsewhere, Atlético Madrid continued their strong form with a 3-1 victory over MLS side Seattle Sounders.
The FIFA Club World Cup’s expanded format has delivered early drama, with powerhouses faltering and new contenders rising, as Messi’s Miami looks to cement a historic run.
