Brazilian giants, Palmeiras staged a dramatic late rally to salvage a 2-2 draw against Inter Miami on Monday, booking a spot in the Club World Cup last 16 for both sides.
Inter Miami looked destined for another shock victory after Tadeo Allende and Luis Suárez found the net to give them a commanding two-goal lead.
However, Palmeiras refused to go quietly, with Paulinho sparking hope in the 81st minute before Mauricio completed the comeback just moments later.
The result sees Inter Miami, fresh off their triumph over Porto, set up a blockbuster clash with European champions Paris Saint-Germain in the next round.
It will be a special reunion for Lionel Messi, who turns 38 on Tuesday, as he prepares to face his former club PSG for the first time since making the switch to Miami in 2023.
Palmeiras, meanwhile, are set for a fierce all-Brazilian showdown with Botafogo in the last 16.
Elsewhere, despite serving up a goal-laden thriller in a 4-4 draw at MetLife Stadium, both Egypt’s Al Ahly and Portugal’s Porto crashed out of the tournament following Monday’s results.