Club World Cup Thriller: Messi’s Miami advances to face PSG
Inter Miami secured a dramatic place in the FIFA Club World Cup knockout stages after a 2-2 draw with Palmeiras, setting up a blockbuster clash with Lionel Messi’s former club, Paris Saint-Germain.
A first-half strike from Tadeo Allende and Luis Suárez’s superb second-half volley put Miami in control, but Palmeiras fought back with late goals from Paulinho and Mauricio to top Group A on goal difference. Despite the comeback, Miami progressed in second place.
Suárez, 38, shone with a goal and an assist, earning Man of the Match honors. The Uruguayan’s influence proved pivotal as Miami became the only MLS side to advance, justifying FIFA’s controversial host-nation invite.
PSG, meanwhile, topped Group B after a 2-0 win over Seattle Sounders. Messi’s reunion with his former club adds intrigue to the knockout clash.
“Mission accomplished,” said Miami coach Javier Mascherano. “We’ll face PSG with humility but in football, anything can happen.”
Elsewhere, Al Ahly and Porto played out a thrilling 4-4 draw, with Pepe’s late equalizer eliminating both sides.
