Inter Miami secured a thrilling 2-1 comeback victory against Portuguese giants FC Porto in the FIFA Club World Cup on Thursday, June 19, 2025, at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta. Lionel Messi's stunning free-kick in the 54th minute sealed the win, capping off a second-half resurgence that began with Telasco Segovia's impressive equalizer just after the break.
The match began with Porto taking an early lead in the 8th minute. Noah Allen was penalized after a Video Review deemed he had fouled João Mário in the box. Samu Aghehowa converted the resulting penalty, giving the Portuguese side a 1-0 advantage. Porto maintained control for much of the first half and came close to extending their lead. Rodrigo Mora was denied by a goal-line clearance from Maxi Falcón, and Alan Varela's long-range shot struck the post. Inter Miami struggled to find their rhythm in the first half, with Porto's defense effectively containing their attacking threats.
Inter Miami emerged from halftime with renewed energy. Just two minutes into the second half, Telasco Segovia leveled the score with a spectacular half-volley, roofing Marcelo Weigandt's cross. The equalizer ignited the Inter Miami attack, and they quickly capitalized on their momentum. Seven minutes later, Porto conceded a free kick on the edge of their own box after a foul on Messi. The Argentine maestro stepped up and delivered a moment of pure brilliance, curling the ball over the wall and past Porto's goalkeeper Claudio Ramos. The stadium erupted as Messi's free kick found the back of the net, giving Inter Miami a 2-1 lead. This was Messi's first FIFA Club World Cup goal for Inter Miami.
With a one-goal advantage, Inter Miami displayed newfound confidence, controlling the game and limiting Porto's chances. Despite Porto's late efforts to find an equalizer, Inter Miami's defense held firm, securing a historic victory. The win marked the first time an MLS team has won a Club World Cup game against a traditional European powerhouse like Porto.
Inter Miami's coach, Javier Mascherano, praised his team's performance, stating, "They were working really, really hard against a team that have a lot of quality and a high level, but today we showed to the world and to ourselves that we can compete against any team." He further added, "When we are together, when we are next to our teammates, we can do something amazing."
With this victory, Inter Miami now controls their destiny in Group A. They are level on points with Brazilian side Palmeiras. Inter Miami will face Palmeiras in their final group stage match on Monday, June 23, which will determine which team advances to the knockout rounds as the first-place team in Group A.
