Lionel Messi struck a chic free-kick to assist Inter Miami declare a dramatic 2-1 comeback win over Porto on the Membership World Cup, sealing a significant three factors and reaching a key private milestone.
It was a match that started with frustration for the MLS facet, who fell behind early to a penalty from Porto’s Samu Aghehowa within the eighth minute. However Inter Miami responded strongly after the break, rapidly turning the tide of the match.
Telasco Segovia equalised simply two minutes into the second half earlier than Messi took centre stage with considered one of his trademark set-pieces. Seven minutes later, the Argentine curled an inch-perfect free-kick previous Claudio Ramos on the close to put up, finishing the turnaround and sending followers into raptures.
The objective not solely sealed the win but additionally marked Messi’s fiftieth for Inter Miami in simply 61 aggressive matches since his arrival in 2023. It was additionally the 68th direct free-kick of his legendary profession, scored throughout 12 completely different competitions for membership and nation.
With six targets in 5 Membership World Cup appearances, Messi stays essential to Inter Miami’s marketing campaign. Their win over Porto moved them to second in Group A, stage on 4 factors with Palmeiras and three forward of Porto and Al Ahly.
The Herons now have management of their future heading into their remaining group match. Because of their head-to-head win over Porto, they can’t be overtaken by the Portuguese facet. A draw in opposition to Palmeiras could be sufficient to safe development, whereas a win would see them high the group.
Because the match continues, Messi’s affect grows, his magic remaining undiminished even at 37 — delivering targets, factors, and historic moments for Inter Miami.
