Lionel Messi scored his 50th goal for Inter Miami as the MLS side came from behind to beat FC Porto 2-1, sealing their first-ever FIFA Club World Cup victory.
Porto took an early lead in the 8th minute through Samu Aghehowa’s penalty, which slipped under goalkeeper Oscar Ustari. The Portuguese side dominated the first half, with Francesco Moura denied by a goal-line clearance and Alan Varela hitting the post.
But Inter Miami responded strongly after the break. Telasco Segovia rifled Marcelo Weigandt’s cut-back into the top corner to equalize.
Then, as always, Messi delivered. After narrowly missing one attempt, the Argentine maestro curled a trademark free-kick over the wall and past Claudio Ramos to clinch the comeback.
The 37-year-old now has six goals in seven Club World Cup appearances; five with Barcelona and one with Inter Miami; tying Gareth Bale and Karim Benzema on the all-time list, just one behind Cristiano Ronaldo (7).
Sergio Busquets, turning 37 next month, put in a masterclass in midfield. He completed 94.5% of his 74 passes and made three successful tackles, only bettered by teammate Benjamin Cremaschi. Porto’s Fabio Vieira was the only player to attempt more passes.
Inter Miami and Palmeiras (both on four points) face off in Florida on Tuesday at 02:00 BST. A draw sends both to the last 16. Porto (1 point) must beat Al Ahly and hope for a result in their favor in the other game.
