New Delhi, June 20(HS): In the FIFA Club World Cup, Inter Miami triumphed 2-1 over Porto, primarily due to a spectacular free-kick from Lionel Messi. Porto initially led with a penalty scored by Samu Aghehowa in the 8th minute, following a VAR-reviewed foul by Inter Miami’s Noah Allen. Despite Porto’s aggressive play, including several attempts by Aghehowa and Varela, Miami’s defense managed to hold firm until halftime.

The second half saw a revitalized Inter Miami; Telasco Segovia equalized in the 47th minute with a well-placed shot from a Marcelo Viggiano cross. Shortly after, Messi drew a foul just outside the box and converted the resulting free-kick into the top corner in the 54th minute, securing a 2-1 lead for Miami. Porto attempted to rally in the closing minutes, with 7 minutes of injury time added, but Inter Miami’s defense, bolstered by goalkeeper Oscar Ustari, successfully repelled their efforts.

This match marked a historic moment as it was the first competitive victory for an MLS club against a European opponent. Initially, attendance at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium was low due to the weekday timing, but around 32,000 fans eventually enjoyed Messi’s performance. Following this win, Inter Miami and Palmeiras each have four points in Group A, while Porto and Al-Ahli remain at one point, setting the stage for decisive upcoming matches.

Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar