Messi to Face Former Club PSG as Inter Miami Reach Last 16

• Jun 24, 2025

Lionel Messi is set for a high-stakes reunion with his former club Paris Saint-Germain after helping Inter Miami secure a place in the last 16 of the FIFA Club World Cup 2025. The Major League Soccer side held Brazilian champions Palmeiras to a dramatic 2-2 draw at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami on June 23.

Despite giving up a two-goal lead late in the game, Inter Miami’s performance was enough to see them through to the knockout stage of the tournament. They will now face PSG in Atlanta, while Palmeiras are set for an all-Brazilian clash against Botafogo.

Inter Miami took control of the match early, with Uruguayan forward Luis Suarez and Argentine midfielder Tadeo Allende both getting on the scoresheet. In the 16th minute, Suarez expertly chested down a long pass and laid it off for Allende, who sprinted past the Palmeiras defense and calmly slotted home the opener.

Messi, who turns 38 this week, played a key role in midfield, linking up effectively with Sergio Busquets and Federico Redondo as Miami dominated possession. The Argentine star came close to scoring early in the second half, but Palmeiras keeper Weverton denied him with a low save.

Suarez made it 2-0 in the 65th minute with a stunning solo goal, weaving past two defenders before firing into the top corner. It seemed like Miami were headed for another major upset, having already beaten Porto earlier in the group.

However, Palmeiras mounted a late comeback. Substitute Paulinho scored in the 80th minute after a clever pass from Allan Andrade. Then, with just three minutes remaining, Maxi Falcon’s header dropped to Mauricio, who rifled the ball into the far corner to equalize.

While Miami missed out on topping the group, coach Javier Mascherano praised his side’s historic achievement. “It’s a great night for MLS. We’re among the best 16 teams in the world, and everyone should be proud,” he said.

Palmeiras coach Abel Ferreira admitted his team had a poor first half but credited their fighting spirit for the comeback. “We were rewarded for our persistence,” he said.

The result also saw Al Ahly and Porto eliminated, despite an eight-goal thriller in their final group game.