Inter Miami 2–1 FC Porto: Messi’s Free-Kick Sinks European Giants

Atlanta, June 19, 2025 – Inter Miami secured a memorable 2–1 victory over Portuguese giants FC Porto in a Group A clash at the FIFA Club World Cup, marking a landmark win for the Major League Soccer (MLS) side against a top-tier European opponent.

First Half: Porto Takes the Lead

FC Porto struck early in the 8th minute when Samu Aghehowa calmly slotted home a penalty awarded via VAR, following a foul by Noah Allen on João Mário in the box. Inter Miami struggled to break through a disciplined Porto defense and went into the break trailing 1–0.

Second Half Comeback

The second half saw a transformed Miami side. Just over a minute after the restart, Telasco Segovia met Marcelo Weigandt’s precise cross with a powerful header to draw level.

In the 54th minute, Lionel Messi stepped up and delivered a trademark free-kick that soared into the top corner, giving Inter Miami a 2–1 lead they would not relinquish.

Match Highlights

Goals: Aghehowa (8’ pen), Segovia (47’), Messi (54’ free-kick)

Messi Milestone: The goal marked Messi’s 50th strike in 61 appearances for Inter Miami.

Historic Feat: Inter Miami became the first CONCACAF side to defeat a UEFA club in the Club World Cup since 2012.

Match Stats: Porto registered 14 shots, but Miami proved more clinical with five on target compared to Porto’s three.

Coach Javier Mascherano’s halftime adjustments proved decisive as Miami controlled the early second-half tempo and capitalized on key opportunities.

Looking Ahead

The win places Inter Miami on four points in Group A, level with Palmeiras. FC Porto and Al Ahly sit on one point each. Miami will face Palmeiras in their final group game, needing at least a draw to advance to the knockout stage.

Summary: Fueled by tactical discipline and a moment of magic from Lionel Messi, Inter Miami’s 2–1 triumph over FC Porto sends a strong message—MLS clubs can compete on the world stage.