The FIFA Club World Cup 2025 is already delivering shocks and memorable moments as the group stage progresses. Day six saw both Lionel Messi inspire Inter Miami to a historic victory and Botafogo stun Paris Saint-Germain.
In Atlanta, Lionel Messi showcased his enduring brilliance, leading Inter Miami to a 2-1 comeback victory against FC Porto. This win not only marks Inter Miami's first-ever Club World Cup victory but also represents the first time a CONCACAF team has defeated European opposition in the competition. Porto drew first blood with a penalty from Samu Aghehowa. Inter Miami responded early in the second half when Telasco Segovia scored. However, it was Messi's moment of magic in the 54th minute that sealed the win. The Argentinian maestro curled a free-kick into the top corner, sending the crowd into raptures and securing a crucial three points for his team. Inter Miami's coach, Javier Mascherano, lauded Messi's leadership and the team's resilience, stating that they had proven they could compete against any team. The win puts Inter Miami in a strong position to qualify for the knockout stages.
Meanwhile, in Pasadena, California, Botafogo delivered the biggest shock of the tournament so far by defeating European champions Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) 1-0. The Brazilian side's victory ended PSG's six-game winning streak and highlighted Botafogo's strong form, marking their fifth consecutive win across all competitions. Igor Jesus's goal in the 36th minute proved to be the difference in a tightly contested match. Jefferson Savarino's assist set up Jesus, who wrong-footed the defender before slotting the ball past PSG's goalkeeper, Gianluigi Donnarumma. Despite PSG dominating possession and creating numerous chances, Botafogo's defense remained resolute, denying the French champions an equalizer. PSG had previously defeated Atletico Madrid 4-0. Botafogo's disciplined defending stifled PSG's attack, leaving the star-studded team frustrated. The result leaves Group B finely balanced, with Botafogo in a strong position to advance to the knockout stages.
Other notable results from matchday six include Palmeiras' 2-0 victory over Al Ahly in a match disrupted by a storm delay, and Atletico Madrid's 3-1 win against Seattle Sounders. Pablo Barrios scored twice for Atletico, while Albert Rusnák scored a consolation goal for Seattle.
