Lionel Messi celebrates Inter Miami’s match-winning moment. (Reuters)
Lionel Messi once again reminded the world of his celestial genius, delivering a sensational winner as Inter Miami CF defeated FC Porto in a dramatic FIFA Club World Cup encounter that had the footballing world on edge.
The Argentine superstar’s dazzling strike in the dying moments of the match capped off a night of electric football and reaffirmed why the words “Messi magic” continue to trend across the globe.
A Clash of Styles: Porto’s Structure vs Miami’s Spark
While FC Porto entered the game with European pedigree and tactical discipline, Inter Miami brought flair—and Messi. Backed by a roaring Miami crowd and buoyed by their growing international profile, Miami looked determined to make their Club World Cup campaign count.
Telasco Segovia and Sergio Busquets anchored the midfield, with Jordi Alba offering relentless width down the left. But it was Messi who dictated tempo, linked play, and ultimately, delivered the killer blow.
Messi outmaneuvered Porto’s high press during a key second-half moment.
AP Photo/Brynn Anderson
The Goal That Broke the Internet
In the 88th minute, with the score locked at 1-1, Messi picked up a loose ball at the edge of the box, danced past two defenders, and curled a left-footed shot past Porto’s keeper like only he can. The goal, now going viral across X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram, has sparked comparisons to his iconic Champions League moments.
Trending Hashtags: #MessiMagic #InterMiamiWinner #ClubWorldCup2025 #MessiVsPorto
Football commentator Andy Gray posted:
“Lionel Messi’s left foot is still the most feared weapon in football. Pure poetry.”
Watching Messi win the World Cup was too much for Rafa Nadal pic.twitter.com/8t5AD9XwhR
— ESPN FC (@ESPNFC) December 23, 2022
Stat Line That Speaks Volumes
- Possession: Inter Miami 55% – 45% FC Porto
- Shots on Target: Inter Miami 7 – 4 FC Porto
- Goals: Messi (88’), Segovia (34’) | Taremi (FC Porto – 59’)
- Match Rating (Messi):6/10
What It Means for Inter Miami CF
For Inter Miami, this wasn’t just another CWC fixture—it was a historic marker. This win catapults the MLS side into the semi-finals and proves they’re more than just a marketing project. They are legitimate contenders.
Messi’s presence has elevated every aspect of the club:
- Sponsorship deals have surged
- Global broadcasting rights are up
- Youth academy enrollments have doubled in South Florida
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Post-Match Reactions: Messi Speaks
In a humble yet thrilling post-match interview, Messi said:
“I’m enjoying my football again. Winning like this, with this team, means a lot.”
Coach Tata Martino added,
“Lionel continues to redefine what’s possible at his age. His goal tonight is already part of our club’s folklore.”
FC Porto: Frustrated but Not Broken
Porto manager Sérgio Conceição acknowledged the brilliance of Messi but pointed out:
“We contained him for 87 minutes. That 88th? You can’t coach against that.”
Porto now faces an uphill battle in the group with goal difference becoming crucial.
What Messi’s Win Means for MLS and Global Football
With this win, Inter Miami is no longer just a team with a legend—they’re a team shaping the future of North American football. Messi’s impact is transcending the pitch. He’s changing broadcasting, fan culture, and even tourism trends in Florida.
If Miami wins the Club World Cup, it may shift global club dynamics—and Messi would again be at the centre of that transformation.
What’s Next?
With Porto behind them, Inter Miami now sharpens its focus for a looming clash with either Al Ahly or Flamengo — a looming battle where legacy and momentum will collide on the world stage. Expect another Messi masterclass—or maybe something even better.
Conclusion
As the world speculates about his retirement, Lionel Messi is busy rewriting the final chapters of his legend—with pink on his chest and magic in his boots. If there was ever any doubt, tonight proved it: Messi is far from finished. He’s just playing a different game now.
