Messi Lifts Inter Miami to Historic Club World Cup Victory Over Porto

Inter Miami etched their name into the FIFA Club World Cup history books on Thursday, becoming the first MLS team to win a match in the competition and the first Concacaf side to defeat a European club in an official tournament, according to MLSsoccer.com.

The 2-1 comeback win over FC Porto at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta was powered by Telasco Segovia’s equalizer and a trademark free-kick goal from Lionel Messi in the 54th minute. With the result, Miami now sits atop Group A alongside Palmeiras, both with four points. The two will clash Monday night in Miami for a spot in the Round of 16.

“This is a historic day for our club,” head coach Javier Mascherano told reporters. “Being alive going into our third match is no small thing.”

Miami fell behind early after Samu Aghehowa scored from the spot, but Maxi Falcón’s goal-line clearance and a near miss from Alan Varela kept them in the match.

Segovia sparked the turnaround shortly after halftime, finishing Marcelo Weigandt’s cross with precision. Minutes later, Messi struck with his left foot, curling a set-piece past Cláudio Ramos to complete the comeback.

“I had a feeling it was going in,” said Fafà Picault. Messi himself praised the collective effort: “We played well and worked hard. It’s an important win for us.”

Miami’s final group match comes against Palmeiras, Brazil’s most decorated club. Mascherano remains grounded: “We haven’t achieved anything yet. We need to rest and give everything on Monday. If we play like today, we can compete with anyone.”