Lionel Messi scored his first goal of the expanded Club World Cup on Thursday with a patented free kick, giving Inter Miami a historic 2-3 win over Portugal’s FC Porto. The 36-year-old, the most expensive player in sports history, showcased his signature left-foot technique to send the ball curling into the top corner of the net. The goal came in the 67th minute of the match, which Inter Miami dominated throughout, with the Argentine’s presence seemingly altering the game’s momentum.
Inter Miami’s historic victory over FC Porto represents a significant step forward for Major League Soccer (MLS) on the global stage. The win not only cements Messi’s place in the Club World Cup but also highlights the growing competitiveness of the MLS league. The victory has sparked celebrations among fans around the world, with many hailing Messi’s performance as a masterclass in free-kick execution.
The match, held in Miami, Florida, was part of the expanded Club World Cup, which has seen increased participation from clubs outside of Europe and South America. The win for Inter Miami, the MLS team founded by Messi, marks a turning point in the club’s history and could have long-term implications for the sport’s global development. With Messi’s influence, the club is positioning itself as a major force in international football, potentially reshaping the dynamics of club competitions in the years to come.