(Reuters) -Lionel Messi’s stunning free kick secured Inter Miami a 2-1 win over Porto in their Club World Cup Group A clash on Thursday, marking the first time a CONCACAF team has defeated a European side in an official FIFA tournament.
The Argentine great was pivotal as the Major League Soccer side bounced back from their disappointing goalless draw against Egyptian side Al Ahly in their opening match.
WHY IT’S IMPORTANT:
Inter Miami’s win over Porto boosts their chances of a deep run in a tournament designed to pit champion clubs from across the globe against one another. The competition is taking place in 12 stadiums across the United States.
After FIFA controversially granted Javier Mascherano’s side a backdoor entry, Messi became front and center in the revamped competition, drawing crowds while continuing to elevate the sport in a country long lukewarm toward the world’s game.
The result also offers a glimpse at how North and South American sides stack up against traditionally dominant European sides.
KEY QUOTES:
Inter Miami captain Messi: “It’s a great joy. A lot of effort went into it, and we worked very well. I’m very happy. We were left with a bitter taste after the first match. We thought we could have won it.
“(In the free kick) I took advantage of the space left by the goalkeeper, who was standing still and not covering his post. I tried to score there.
“The other day (there were) nerves from a lot of young guys playing in such a significant competition. We’ve changed. We’re going to compete, try to play our game. Today we were the inferior team, but we have our weapons. Next up is Palmeiras, which is a big club in the world. It’s going to be another very difficult game.”
(Reporting by Janina Nuno Rios in Mexico City; Editing by Nia Williams)
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