Messi magic seals victory for Inter Miami over Porto

GEORGIA: Lionel Messi produced a moment of brilliance to fire Inter Miami to a 2-1 victory over FC Porto in their Club World Cup Group A clash on Thursday, marking a historic milestone as the first time a CONCACAF team has defeated a European side in an official FIFA tournament.

The Argentine superstar curled home a trademark free kick to seal the win for the Major League Soccer outfit, who rebounded strongly after a frustrating goalless draw against Egypt’s Al Ahly in their opening match.

Messi’s impact was pivotal not only in the result but also in reviving Inter Miami’s hopes of progressing deep into the competition, which brings together champion clubs from around the globe. The tournament is being staged across 12 stadiums in the United States.

Speaking after the match, the Inter Miami captain said, “It’s a great joy. A lot of effort went into it, and we worked very well. I’m very happy. We were left with a bitter taste after the first match. We thought we could have won it.”

Reflecting on his stunning goal, Messi added, “I took advantage of the space left by the goalkeeper, who was standing still and not covering his post. I tried to score there.”

With FIFA’s controversial wildcard entry for Javier Mascherano’s side drawing early skepticism, Messi’s performance once again put him at the heart of the global game, drawing packed crowds and lifting the sport’s profile in a traditionally soccer-cautious nation.