David Beckham’s side secures knockout clash with European champions after dramatic draw against Palmeiras
MIAMI, FL – Lionel Messi is set for a high-stakes reunion with former club Paris Saint-Germain after Inter Miami battled to a 2-2 draw against Brazil’s Palmeiras, securing their place in the last 16 of the Club World Cup.
In a thrilling encounter at Hard Rock Stadium, Miami seemed in control after first-half goals from Tadeo Allende and Luis Suárez. But Palmeiras staged a late comeback, with Paulinho and Mauricio striking to deny the hosts top spot in the group. The result sets up a blockbuster showdown in Atlanta on Sunday, where Messi and his former Barcelona teammates—Suárez, Sergio Busquets, and Jordi Alba—will face PSG, now led by their old Barça boss, Luis Enrique.
For Messi, the match carries added significance. His two-year spell at PSG ended in 2023 when the club opted not to extend his contract, shifting focus to youth development—a strategy that ultimately delivered their long-awaited Champions League triumph last season. While the Argentine maestro remains on good terms with Enrique, the clash could still be an awkward reminder of what might have been in Paris.
A Win for FIFA—But Challenges Remain
The marquee matchup is a dream scenario for FIFA president Gianni Infantino, who has faced criticism over the tournament’s lukewarm start, including sparse crowds and sweltering conditions. Infantino, who recently relocated to Miami ahead of the 2026 World Cup, has staked his reputation on expanding soccer’s footprint in the U.S.
“In three to five years, [MLS] will be one of the top leagues in the world—mark my words,” Infantino boldly declared at Fanatics Fest in New York. His confidence hasn’t wavered, but the pressure is on to deliver a spectacle that justifies FIFA’s ambitious vision.
For Inter Miami co-owner David Beckham, the PSG tie is a golden opportunity to showcase his club’s rapid rise. Facing the European champions—a team he once played for—on the global stage is a milestone moment in Miami’s short history.
Suárez Warns: “We Must Improve”
Despite the excitement, Luis Suárez struck a cautious tone after the Palmeiras draw. “If we repeat these mistakes against PSG, we’ll pay dearly,” the Uruguayan warned. “They’re the favorites, but football is played on the pitch. We’ll fight.”
Miami’s head coach, Javier Mascherano, praised his team’s resilience. “We were underdogs, but we’ve grown through discipline and belief,” he said. “Now we face the ultimate test—PSG. It’s 11 against 11, and we’ll give everything.”
As the spotlight turns to Atlanta, all eyes will be on Messi—the man who once wore PSG’s colors—as he aims to script another unforgettable chapter in his storied career.
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