June 29, 2025: The FIFA Club World Cup last-16 tie between Inter Miami and Paris Saint-Germain lived up to its billing as one of the round’s most tantalizing fixtures, with Lionel Messi going up against his former side in Atlanta.
Inter Miami entered the match as clear underdogs against the reigning European champions, but with Messi in their ranks, they carried hopes of an upset. The Argentine icon had already been instrumental in Miami’s historic run, his brilliant free-kick securing their place in the knockout stage with a famous win over Porto.
However, despite a valiant effort, Messi and Miami fell short as PSG secured a narrow 1-0 victory. Joao Nunez struck early, heading home just five minutes into the game to give Luis Enrique’s side the lead they would not relinquish.
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PSG, who had previously brushed aside Atletico Madrid but stumbled against Botafogo in the group stage, looked composed for most of the match. Ousmane Dembele, returning from injury, started on the bench and was available as a substitute option.
While Inter Miami pushed for an equalizer, PSG’s experience and defensive discipline saw them through to the quarter-finals, underlining their status as tournament favorites.
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