Messi Set for Emotional PSG Showdown as Inter Miami Reach Club World Cup Knockouts
Lionel Messi is gearing up for a highly anticipated face-off against his former club, Paris Saint-Germain, after Inter Miami clinched a spot in the Club World Cup round of 16. The MLS side earned their ticket to the knockout stage following a thrilling 2-2 draw with Brazilian giants Palmeiras, a result that also saw the South American team progress.
Goals from Tadeo Allende and Luis Suárez had Miami on course for a second group-stage victory. But Palmeiras staged a late comeback with goals from Paulinho and Maurício in the dying minutes, ensuring both teams advanced, with Palmeiras narrowly topping the group on goal difference. Portuguese side Porto and Egypt’s Al Ahly were knocked out in a dramatic final matchday.
Reflecting on the achievement, Inter Miami coach Javier Mascherano praised his squad:
To be among the world’s best 16 clubs is historic for MLS. Every player gave their all, and we’ve proven we can compete at the highest level.
Javier Mascherano
Inter Miami stands as the sole MLS representative in the knockout stages after Seattle Sounders and Los Angeles FC exited early. Their next challenge? A clash with European champions PSG—where Messi spent two seasons and where several of his current teammates and coach Luis Enrique previously shared glory at Barcelona.
The match promises a nostalgic reunion as Messi, Suárez, Sergio Busquets, Jordi Alba, and Mascherano go head-to-head with Enrique, the manager behind their iconic treble-winning season in 2015.
“It’s a huge step for the club,” said Alba. “We’ve already shown we can compete. Now it’s about going toe-to-toe with the champions of Europe. We know them well, and we respect them—but anything can happen in football.”
PSG secured their place in the last 16 with a composed 2-0 win over the Sounders, courtesy of strikes from Khvicha Kvaratskhelia and Achraf Hakimi. While European pedigree lies with the French club, Inter Miami’s squad—brimming with experience and chemistry—will be no easy challenge.
Elsewhere, Atlético Madrid suffered heartbreak despite defeating Botafogo 1-0. Despite finishing level on six points with PSG and Botafogo, they were edged out on goal difference. Porto and Al Ahly also bowed out after a dramatic 4-4 draw left both needing a win to survive.
The spotlight now turns to Sunday, when Messi leads his Inter Miami squad into battle against PSG in what could be one of the most captivating matches of the tournament. Fans worldwide will be watching closely as legends reunite and clash in pursuit of Club World Cup glory.
