Both teams advanced to the knockout round as Palmeiras overcame a 2-goal deficit to secure a 2-2 draw against Inter Miami on Monday, securing the top spot in Group A for the Club World Cup last 16.
Miami 2-0 Lead Erased in Final 10 Minutes
Tadeo Allende and Luis Suarez netted goals to establish a two-goal advantage for Miami. However, in the final 10′ of the match, Palmeiras mounted a comeback with strikes from Paulinho and Mauricio, ultimately leveling the score.
Both teams concluded the tournament with 5 points each, with Inter Miami securing the 2nd position based on goal difference. In contrast, Al-Ahly and Porto were both eliminated from contention after playing to a high-scoring draw of 4-4.
Messi vs PSG: Knockout Stage Fixture Set
Lionel Messi’s team is set to face European champions Paris Saint-Germain, where the Argentine superstar played for two seasons from 2021 to 2023. To advance to the quarterfinals, Palmeiras will face their bitter rivals Botafogo in a tough all-Brazilian matchup.
Mascherano Hails “Historic Evening for MLS”
Coach Javier Mascherano of Inter Miami described the encounter as a “historic evening” for Major League Soccer, saying, “It was a fantastic match for us; facing one of the top teams in South America is always a challenge.”
“It is strange to believe that we may have won the game in the end. However, if someone had told me before the tournament that we would perform this well against such tough teams, I would have eagerly agreed.”
Inter Miami: Sole MLS Survivor in Tournament
Inter Miami stands out as the sole MLS team to advance to the last 16, following the eliminations of both Los Angeles FC and the Seattle Sounders.
Match Analysis: How the Drama Unfolded
With the crowd heavily favouring Palmeiras and creating an atmosphere that made it seem like an away game for hosts Miami, the Brazilian side started with intensity, pressing high up the pitch but despite their energy the final ball lacked precision.
Allende’s Breakthrough Goal (16′)
Miami made their mark in the 16th minute as Allende burst through a stationary Palmeiras defense, effortlessly finishing after a stunning 40-meter dash.
Messi’s Near-Miss Highlights Second Half
Allende was within inches of scoring again early in the second half, firing a shot that went just wide following another swift counterattack. Moments later, Messi thrilled the crowd with a spectacular volley from distance, which just cleared the crossbar.
Suarez’s Stunning Strike (65′)
Suarez, who had been relatively quiet throughout the match, came alive in the 65th minute. He skillfully cut onto his left foot and unleashed a powerful shot into the top corner from a tight angle, bringing the score to 2-0.
Paulinho Ignites Comeback (80′)
Palmeiras managed to score one back with just 10 minutes remaining, as substitute Paulinho skillfully tucked a low shot into the bottom corner.
Mauricio’s Equalizer (87′)
Seven minutes later, Mauricio seized a loose clearance and confidently slotted it home from the penalty spot, ensuring that Palmeiras maintained their position at the top of the group.
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