First win, three records: Lionel Messi helps Inter Miami make FIFA Club World Cup statement with Porto victory

On a humid Thursday afternoon in Atlanta, Lionel Messi once again etched his name into the soccer history books.

On a humid Thursday afternoon in Atlanta, Lionel Messi once again etched his name into the soccer history books. With a stunning free-kick, he led Inter Miami to a 2-1 victory over Porto, a result that not only shocked many but also cemented a series of historic milestones in the ongoing FIFA Club World Cup 2025. But what were those records? That’s a story best told in the heart of the action.

The match, played at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium, saw Miami rise to the challenge against a traditional European powerhouse. Porto, the two-time UEFA Champions League winner, had entered the match as a clear favorite. That notion was reinforced early when Samu Aghehowa converted a penalty in the 8th minute, putting the Portuguese side ahead.

The Herons looked vulnerable. Yet, despite Porto’s early dominance, Messi and his teammates didn’t fold. Defensive stalwart Maximiliano Falcon cleared off the line, and goalkeeper Oscar Ustari made key saves to keep the game within reach.

The equalizer came just after halftime when Telasco Segovia calmly finished a low cross from Marcelo Weigandt in the 47th minute. Moments later, it was time for the Messi magic.

Messi’s masterclass and the three historic records

In the 54th minute, Messi was fouled just outside the box, giving him a golden opportunity. What followed was vintage Messi: a curling, left-footed free-kick into the top corner that left Porto goalkeeper Claudio Ramos rooted to the spot.

That goal didn’t just secure three points. It marked the Argentine’s 50th goal for Inter Miami, and his 67th career free-kick—a number few players can even dream of reaching. But even more significantly, the match saw Inter Miami become the first MLS team ever to beat a European side in an official FIFA competition.

The second record broken was equally historic: no team from the CONCACAF region had previously defeated European opposition at this level. And the third milestone? This was Inter Miami’s first win in the Club World Cup, only their second match in the competition.