Lionel Messi Leads Inter Miami to Historic Win Against Porto

Lionel Messi netted his first goal of the expanded FIFA Club World Cup with a stunning free kick, guiding Inter Miami to a 2-1 triumph over two-time European champions Porto.

The Herons found themselves trailing 1-0 at halftime, but Telasco Segovia equalized just two minutes into the second half, converting a cross from Marcelo Weigandt. It wasn’t long before the 37-year-old Argentine star added another highlight to his illustrious career with a trademark effort.

Samu Omorodion had put Porto ahead with a penalty kick shortly after a video review confirmed the decision, marking the Portuguese club’s first goal of the tournament. Both teams had previously played to scoreless draws in their opening Group A matches.

Inter Miami coach Javier Mascherano commended his squad’s performance against a team known for its elite status in Europe. “We worked incredibly hard against a side with immense quality, but today we proved to the world and ourselves that we can compete with anyone,” he said. “The first half was very impressive. The players realized they have what it takes. When we support each other, we can achieve amazing things.”

Lionel Messi was fouled just outside the penalty area by Rodrigo Mora during a drive down the middle. The crowd at Mercedes-Benz Stadium erupted in chants of “Messi! Messi! Messi!” as his left-footed strike soared over the Porto wall, finding the top right corner of the net in the 54th minute.

“Lionel Messi is our leader in how we compete,” Mascherano added. “His hunger, resilience, and relentless desire to keep competing, regardless of the level, is truly inspiring. In football terms, what else can I say? He’s the best player ever. His willingness to win is always remarkable. Even in the dying moments, when everyone is fatigued, he continues to push the team in every way possible.”

Inter Miami heads back to South Florida on Monday, aware that a win against Brazilian club Palmeiras at Hard Rock Stadium will secure their place in the Round of 16. Meanwhile, Porto, in dire need of a victory, will face Egypt’s Al Ahly to conclude group play at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey.

Porto coach Martin Anselmi reflected on Lionel Messi’s brilliance: “What can I say about him? I won’t say anything new; you know what he’s capable of on the pitch.”