MIAMI, Florida – In a match packed with drama, flair, and late heartbreak, Inter Miami played out an entertaining 2-2 draw against Palmeiras at Hard Rock Stadium in the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup. The Herons seemed destined for a statement win, only to watch it slip through their fingers in the dying minutes.
The night had a touch of nostalgia, thanks to a classic Luis Suarez goal, while Lionel Messi, who turned 38 on matchday, had a quiet outing by his extraordinary standards.
Early Control, Vintage Suarez, and a Birthday Without Fireworks
Inter Miami started the match with confidence and energy, striking first in the 16th minute. Young Argentine Tadeo Allende made the breakthrough with a composed finish, capitalising on a sublime assist from Suarez, who smartly chested down a long ball and teed up Allende perfectly. It was a goal that came slightly against the run of play, but one that ignited the home crowd.
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In the second half, it was Suarez himself who doubled the lead. In the 65th minute, the Uruguayan forward showed he still has the magic, weaving past defenders before rifling a left-footed rocket into the top corner. A trademark finish. This goal not only reminded fans of Suarez’s lethal past but also marked his first in this edition of the Club World Cup.
Meanwhile, Messi, despite playing the full 90 minutes on his birthday, couldn’t find the net. His touches were classy, and he controlled the tempo from midfield, but his best chance—a dipping volley—flew just over the bar.
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Palmeiras Fight Back in Final 10 Minutes
With a 2-0 cushion and only ten minutes to go, it seemed Inter Miami had done enough. But Palmeiras weren’t ready to quit.
In the 80th minute, Paulinho reignited the match with a precise finish from inside the box. And then, just seven minutes later, Mauricio stunned the crowd by smashing in the equaliser after Inter Miami failed to clear their lines. From cruising to hanging on—it was a whirlwind collapse for the Herons.
The draw allowed Palmeiras to top Group A on goal difference, despite both teams finishing on five points.
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MLS History Made: Miami Into the Round of 16
Though they couldn’t hold the win, the result was still historic. Inter Miami became the first-ever MLS team to reach the Round of 16 in the newly expanded FIFA Club World Cup format. A huge achievement for the club, and a proud moment for American soccer.
Head coach Javier Mascherano summed it up perfectly:
“It was a great game from us. Maybe at the end, we had the game in our hands, so the feeling is strange. But if someone told me before the tournament that we’d perform like this against these teams, I would’ve taken it.”
What’s Next: Messi vs PSG in Atlanta
The stage is now set for a blockbuster knockout clash. Inter Miami will face none other than Paris Saint-Germain, winners of Group B and Messi’s former club, in Atlanta on Sunday, June 29. That reunion between Messi and PSG is sure to grab headlines and bring added emotion to the contest.
Palmeiras, meanwhile, will meet Botafogo in an all-Brazilian showdown. Match Summary
Match Summary
- Final Score: Inter Miami 2-2 Palmeiras
- Goal Scorers:
- Tadeo Allende (16’) – Inter Miami
- Luis Suarez (65’) – Inter Miami
- Paulinho (80’) – Palmeiras
- Mauricio (87’) – Palmeiras
- Venue: Hard Rock Stadium, Miami, USA
- Player of the Match: Luis Suarez
- Messi’s Role: Full 90 minutes, no goals/assists, one near miss
Key Takeaways
- Inter Miami advances to Round of 16 with five points
- Palmeiras top Group A on goal difference
- Luis Suarez scores his first goal of the 2025 Club World Cup
- Messi turns 38, delivers composed performance without end product
- Next Match: Inter Miami vs PSG (June 29), Palmeiras vs Botafogo