When Lionel Messi wins a free kick, it’s almost as if his team has been awarded a penalty. The Argentine legend was at it again on Thursday, curling in a sublime free kick to help Inter Miami claim a 2-1 victory over Portuguese giants FC Porto in their second Group A match at the FIFA Club World Cup.
The 37-year-old’s effort marked his 50th goal since joining Inter Miami — a strike so precise that goalkeeper Claudio Ramos stood no chance.
Messi’s goal came after a stunning equalizer from teammate Telasco Segovia, completing a comeback win for the MLS side. That also cancalled out Samu’s goal from the penalty spot. The result puts Inter Miami in a strong position to advance to the Round of 16.
With that free kick, Messi took his career tally of direct free-kick goals to 68 — behind only Juninho Pernambucano (77), who starred for Lyon, and the legendary Pele (70).
Inter Miami makes history
This victory is Inter Miami’s first-ever win at the Club World Cup. A draw in their final Group A fixture against Brazilian heavyweights Palmeiras would be enough to send both sides through.
In the group’s other match, African giants Al Ahly were beaten 2-0 by Palmeiras. They are now on the brink of elimination ahead of their must-win clash against FC Porto.
Meanwhile, earlier this morning, European champions were handed a shocker by Brazilian outfit Botafogo RJ after a 1-0 defeat.
The Brazilian side scored through Igor Jesus in the 36th minute and held firmly held on to their lead to top Group B with six points ahead of PSG and Atletico Madrid, who both have three points.
READ MORE: Mbappé Hospitalised with Gastroenteritis, Doubtful for Real Madrid’s Next Match
