Lionel Messi is set for a highly anticipated reunion with former club Paris Saint-Germain after Inter Miami secured their spot in the FIFA Club World Cup knockout stages, despite a dramatic 2-2 draw with Palmeiras today.
Inter Miami, cheered on by over 60,000 fans, were cruising with goals from Tadeo Allende (16′) and Luis Suarez (65′).
However, Palmeiras staged a late comeback with goals from Paulinho (80′) and Maurício (87′) to top Group A on goal difference.
Inter Miami’s second-place finish sets up a last-16 clash against current Champions League holders PSG, where Messi played from 2021 to 2023. This match is scheduled for June 29 in Atlanta.
Luis Suarez, despite a subdued team performance, was the player of the match, providing an assist and scoring a brilliant goal.
FIFA’s decision to include Inter Miami, widely seen as a move to ensure Messi’s participation, appears justified, as they are the only US team to reach the knockout phase.
“We’ve achieved the goal…anything can happen in a match,” said Inter Miami head coach Javier Mascherano.
Messi’s remarkable record continues, as his teams have now progressed from all 33 group stages he has appeared in.
