Fri Jun 20 20:00:00 UTC 2025: **FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE**
**Messi Magic Leads Inter Miami to Historic Club World Cup Victory Over Porto**
**ATLANTA, GA** – Lionel Messi delivered another moment of brilliance, scoring his 50th goal for Inter Miami with a stunning free kick to secure a 2-1 victory over FC Porto in a thrilling Club World Cup Group A match at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on Thursday. This landmark win marks the first time a CONCACAF team has defeated a European opponent in FIFA international club competition.
After a disappointing goalless draw against Al Ahly to open the tournament, Miami found themselves trailing 1-0 at halftime after Samu Aghehowa converted a penalty for Porto. However, Telasco Segovia leveled the score early in the second half off a cross from Marcelo Weigandt.
The stage was then set for Messi. In the 54th minute, after being fouled just outside the box, the Argentine superstar unleashed a left-footed curler that sailed over the wall and into the top right corner of the net, sending the crowd into a frenzy.
“It was a great effort from the whole team,” Messi told DAZN after the match. “We competed against a good team. This is a very important victory, and we’ll enjoy it.”
Inter Miami coach Javier Mascherano lauded Messi’s impact, stating, “He’s the best player ever to play this sport. But his determination to win is always surprising.”
The win moves Inter Miami to the top of Group A, level on points with Palmeiras. A draw in their final group match against Palmeiras on Monday will guarantee their place in the round of 16.
This victory is not just a win, but a historic moment for Inter Miami and CONCACAF, showcasing the club’s ambition on the global stage. As Mascherano stated, “It’s a historic day for our club… It means we’re still alive; we’re playing our third game with a chance of qualifying.”
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