Messi’s Decisive Free-Kick
Lionel Messi, at 37, delivered a match-winning direct free-kick in Inter Miami’s 2-1 comeback victory against Porto on June 19, 2025, in Atlanta during the FIFA Club World Cup. Trailing 1-0 after Samu Aghehowa’s 8th-minute penalty, Miami equalized through Telasco Segovia’s 48th-minute strike. Messi’s 55th-minute free-kick, whipped over the wall into the top-right corner, marked his 68th career direct free-kick goal and clinched Miami’s first win in the competition. The victory, per DAZN, was the first time an MLS side defeated a European team in an official tournament.
Mascherano’s Praise
Inter Miami manager Javier Mascherano, a former Barcelona and Argentina teammate of Messi, hailed him as “the best player ever to play this sport” at the post-match press conference. “His hunger, resilience, and will to compete are always surprising,” Mascherano said. “Even in the last minutes, when everyone is tired, he supports the team.” Messi’s 50th goal in 61 games for Miami since joining in July 2023, and his sixth in seven Club World Cup appearances, ties him with Karim Benzema and Gareth Bale, one behind Cristiano Ronaldo’s record.
Messi’s Team-First Mentality
Messi credited the team’s effort, saying, “We defended and managed the ball well. We had a sour taste after the Al Ahly draw. This is a very important victory.” He noted the young squad’s nerves in their Club World Cup debut but praised their competitiveness against Porto’s quality (1.4 xG to Miami’s 1.2). Miami’s performance, with 52% possession and 14 shots, showcased their potential. Mascherano added, “We showed we can compete against anything. When we’re together, we can do something amazing.”
What’s Next?
Inter Miami need only a draw against Palmeiras on June 23 to reach the Club World Cup knockout rounds. A win could set up a clash with Al-Hilal or Real Madrid, potentially pitting Messi against Cristiano Ronaldo. Miami’s historic win boosts MLS’s global profile, with fans on X buzzing over Messi’s “timeless” magic. Mascherano’s side, with young talents like Segovia and Diego Gómez, aims to capitalize on this momentum. Meanwhile, Porto’s loss, coupled with European struggles like Inter’s draw with Monterrey, highlights the tournament’s competitiveness.
