Lionel Messi's stunning free-kick secured a 2-1 comeback win for Inter Miami against FC Porto in the FIFA Club World Cup. This historic victory marks the first time an MLS team has defeated a European side in a competitive match.
A sublime performance from Lionel Messi helped Inter Miami secure a stunning 2-1 comeback victory over Primeira Liga giants FC Porto at the FIFA Club World Cup. Messi scored the winner through a stunning free kick and it was the first time an MLS side won against an European side in a competitive match. The Argentina captain was deservedly named the Superior Player of the Match for his outstanding performance.
Messi was pleased with his team's performance and said it was the first time that many of his teammates played in such a big competition.
"I am really pleased. It was a great effort from the whole team. Not only did we defend, but we managed the ball well. We had a sour taste after the game against Al Ahly. This is a very important victory, and we'll enjoy it," he said.
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"It is being seen that we want to compete; we competed against a strong European team, and here and there we gave away the first half. The younger guys were nervous because it was the first time they were playing in such a significant competition. I think we played well today. We know we were the weaker team but we can hurt them. Next up we have Palmeiras, a great team and it will be a tough match," he added.
Speaking of the goal, Messi said he saw the keeper standing central and aimed for the top right corner to take advantage of the space he left there.
Porto takes early lead
FC Porto struck first, with wing-back Joao Mario winning a penalty that Samu Aghehowa converted, despite the goalkeeper's best efforts. Aghehowa proved a handful for the Inter Miami defense with his back-to-goal play.
However, Messi began to weave his magic, proving difficult for the Portuguese team to contain. His vision, creativity, and close control allowed him to set Luis Suarez free on 19 minutes, but Claudio Ramos made an excellent save. Benjamin Cremaschi forced another impressive stop from Ramos, before Porto threatened twice through Aghehowa and Alan Varela.
Inter Miami turns the game around
Determined to turn the game around, Inter Miami emerged strong in the second half. Telasco Segovia blasted home a cross to bring the American team level. Minutes later, Messi sealed the comeback with an exquisite free-kick, guiding the ball into the top corner beyond Ramos. This was his 68th free-kick goal in his illustrious career, spanning 12 different competitions.
The 37-year-old Messi has now scored 50 goals for Inter Miami in just 61 appearances.
Inter Miami's group table prospects
The MLS side's victory propels them to second in their group table, level on four points with Palmeiras. They face Palmeiras on Tuesday, with Messi's form crucial to their chances of progressing. The Brazilian side, led by young starlet Estevao Willian, will be eager to contain the Argentine maestro.
