Lionel Messi’s trademark free kick sparked a 2-1 comeback victory for Inter Miami against Porto in the Club World Cup on June 19, 2025, thrilling fans and boosting the MLS side’s Group A standing. This article dives into the match highlights and Messi’s pivotal role.
Inter Miami, co-owned by David Beckham, stunned European giants Porto in a historic win for MLS teams. Porto took an early lead via Samu Aghehowa’s penalty, but Inter Miami fought back. Telasco Segovia levelled the score early in the second half, and Messi’s 54th-minute free kick—a curling masterpiece into the top corner—sealed the 2-1 triumph.
53' ARE YOU NOT ENTERTAINED? 🐐
Messi scores a GORGEOUS free kick goal and @InterMiami are now leading 2-1 versus @FCPorto!
Watch the @FIFACWC | June 14 – July 13 | Every Game | Free | https://t.co/i0K4eUtwwb | #FIFACWC #TakeItToTheWorld #MIAFCP pic.twitter.com/KvshKKFrrY
— DAZN Football (@DAZNFootball) June 19, 2025The victory at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, attended by nearly 32,000 fans, marked MLS’s first competitive win over European opposition. Despite a modest crowd due to a 3:00 p.m. weekday kickoff, Inter Miami and Palmeiras now lead Group A with four points each.
MESSI MAGIC ONCE AGAIN ☄️🐐
What a free kick from the goat at the FIFA Club World Cup. pic.twitter.com/EiAv4invb8
— Major League Soccer (@MLS) June 19, 2025Messi, 37, was the standout, creating chances from the start. He set up Luis Suarez, whose effort was saved, and inspired a resilient Inter Miami defence that blocked Porto’s attacks. Goalkeeper Oscar Ustari made crucial saves, while Maximiliano Falcon’s goal-line clearance kept hopes alive. Coach Javier Mascherano’s team showed grit, defending fiercely through seven minutes of stoppage time.
Since signing Messi in 2023, Inter Miami, founded in 2020, has gained global attention. This win underscores their growing competitiveness, with Messi proving why he’s considered soccer’s greatest player.
