Lionel Messi delivered a moment of brilliance to lead Inter Miami CF to a landmark 2-1 victory over FC Porto in a thrilling Group A clash at the FIFA Club World Cup on Thursday afternoon.
The Argentine superstar curled home a sublime free kick in the 54th minute, the 68th such goal of his career, sealing Miami’s first-ever win over European opposition in a FIFA club competition.
Porto struck early through Samu Aghehowa, who converted from the spot in the eighth minute after VAR confirmed a foul by Noah Allen on João Mário.
Although goalkeeper Oscar Ustari got a hand to the shot, he couldn’t keep it out as Porto claimed the initial advantage.
But the MLS side responded emphatically after halftime. Just 90 seconds into the second half, Marcelo Weigandt whipped in a low cross that Telasco Segovia slotted past Porto’s Claudio Ramos to bring Miami level.
Momentum stayed with Miami, and when Rodrigo Mora committed a foul outside the box, Messi made the Portuguese side pay.
The veteran forward placed his free kick perfectly into the top right corner, leaving Ramos rooted as Miami surged ahead.
Despite Porto dominating in total shots (14 to Miami’s 6), the efficiency belonged to the Americans. Five of Miami’s shots were on target compared to just three for the Portuguese side.
Ustari, who had shined with eight saves in Miami’s goalless draw with Al Ahly, had a quieter outing this time with just one stop. Ramos, meanwhile, added three saves to his tally after recording four against Palmeiras.
Both teams entered the match scoreless in the tournament, with Miami drawing 0-0 against Al Ahly and Porto settling for the same result against Palmeiras.
But Messi’s magic proved the difference in a match that could prove pivotal in Group A.