Messi’s Free Kick Magic Seals Victory for Inter Miami Over Porto
In a thrilling match at the FIFA Club World Cup, Lionel Messi showcased his legendary skills, propelling Inter Miami to a 2-1 comeback victory against two-time European champions Porto on Thursday.
Inter Miami fell behind early when Porto’s Samu Omorodion converted a penalty kick in the opening minutes after a video review. Despite trailing 1-0 at halftime, the Herons remained resilient.
Just two minutes into the second half, Telasco Segovia leveled the score, capitalizing on a precise cross from Marcelo Weigandt and igniting the Miami supporters.
The moment of magic came in the 54th minute. Messi was fouled just outside the penalty area by Rodrigo Mora, setting up a free-kick opportunity. As chants of “Messi! Messi! Messi!” echoed through Mercedes-Benz Stadium, the Argentinian maestro curled a sublime left-footed shot over the wall and into the top right corner, leaving the goalkeeper helpless.
With this victory, Inter Miami moves closer to securing a spot in the round of 16. They will face Brazil’s Palmeiras on Monday at Hard Rock Stadium, needing a win to guarantee progression.
Porto, still seeking their first win of the tournament, will take on Egypt’s Al-Ahly at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, hoping to keep their hopes alive.
Palmeiras Secure Win Over Al-Ahly Amidst Weather Delays
In another Group A match, Palmeiras benefited from an own goal by Al-Ahly’s Wessam Abou Ali and secured a 2-0 victory with a strike from Jose Lopez before thunderstorms halted play at MetLife Stadium.
Abou Ali’s misdirected header early in the second half gave Palmeiras the lead. Jose Lopez doubled the advantage in the 59th minute, firing a left-footed shot into the bottom right corner after receiving a perfect pass from Maurício.
The match experienced a 50-minute weather delay due to thunderstorms, but the fans remained enthusiastic upon the game’s resumption. Despite opportunities, Al-Ahly couldn’t overcome their defensive setbacks.
The FIFA Club World Cup continues to deliver excitement as teams vie for international glory.
