Messi to Face Former Club PSG as Inter Miami Reaches Club World Cup Round of 16

Lionel Messi is set for a high-stakes reunion with his former club, Paris Saint-Germain, as Inter Miami advances to the round of 16 in the FIFA Club World Cup.

Inter Miami secured their spot in the knockout stage following a dramatic 2-2 draw against Brazilian side Palmeiras. Goals from Tadeo Allende and Luis Suárez had put Miami in control, but late strikes from Paulinho and Maurício ensured a crucial point for Palmeiras, sending both clubs through. Palmeiras topped the group on goal difference, with both teams finishing on five points. Portuguese giants FC Porto and Egypt’s Al Ahly were eliminated.

Reflecting on his team’s performance, Inter Miami head coach Javier Mascherano praised his players’ commitment:
“Before the tournament, if someone had told me we’d perform like this against such strong teams, I would’ve signed up immediately,” he told DAZN. “It’s a historic night for MLS. We’re among the best 16 teams in the world, and the entire league should be proud.”

Inter Miami remains the only Major League Soccer (MLS) team to progress beyond the group stage, with Seattle Sounders and Los Angeles FC crashing out.

The round of 16 clash will also serve as a reunion between several Barcelona legends Messi, Suárez, Sergio Busquets, Jordi Alba, and Mascherano and their former coach, Luis Enrique, now in charge of PSG. The group famously won the treble with Barcelona in 2015.

Speaking ahead of the anticipated matchup, Jordi Alba acknowledged the challenge ahead:
“To reach this stage is a big achievement for the club,” he said. “Now we’re up against PSG Champions of Europe. It won’t be easy, but we’ve competed well in every match. We know their players, and their coach is someone I was lucky to play under. I’ve always said he’s the best in the world. Once the game starts, it’s about going toe-to-toe and believing anything is possible. That’s football.”

Meanwhile, in Group B, Atlético Madrid was eliminated despite beating Botafogo 1-0. All three teams Atlético, Botafogo, and PSG finished on six points, but Atlético missed out on goal difference.

Group A also saw drama, as Porto and Al Ahly played out a thrilling 4-4 draw. Both teams needed a win to advance, and although Al Ahly were on the brink of a famous victory, Pepê’s last-minute equalizer for Porto dashed their hopes.

Inter Miami will face Paris Saint-Germain in the round of 16 this Sunday in what promises to be one of the most captivating fixtures of the tournament.