FC Porto claimed a narrow but vital 1-0 win over Inter Miami in a dramatic opening match in Group A of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup. An early penalty, converted by forward Samu Aghehowa, proved to be the only goal of the contest, and it came just eight minutes after kickoff.
Played at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, the game was packed with tension, controversy, and moments of attacking promise from both sides. Despite high expectations surrounding Inter Miami and their star-studded lineup, they struggled to respond after falling behind so early.
A Fast Start and a Crucial Call
The American side began with aggressive intent. Just two minutes in, Lionel Messi lofted a well-placed pass over the defense to Luis Suárez, who forced a save from Cláudio Ramos, only to see the flag raised for offside. That early sequence suggested Miami were ready to take command of the match.
But moments later, the momentum swung. A challenge inside the penalty area involving Noah Allen and Porto’s João Mário drew the referee’s attention. After consulting the VAR, the match official awarded Porto a penalty. Though the decision divided opinion — some called it soft — it stood.
Aghehowa calmly sent the ball low and to the right, just past the fingertips of Óscar Ustari, who guessed correctly but couldn’t stop it. The early goal visibly rattled Inter Miami, who had begun brightly but suddenly found themselves chasing the game.
Frustration Builds for Inter Miami
Following the goal, Inter Miami attempted to regain control, but Porto’s defensive organization and composure made life difficult. Even as Messi and Busquets tried to create space and opportunities, Porto’s midfield remained disciplined and limited any meaningful breakthroughs.
The penalty incident also sparked heated protests from Miami’s bench, including from manager Javier Mascherano, who questioned not just the foul but the sequence leading up to it — suggesting the ball may have gone out of play. Despite the protests, play resumed, and Porto settled into a solid rhythm.
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Lionel Messi lost the ball resulting in a penalty for FC Porto who lead 1-0.pic.twitter.com/Pkes89IVOo
— The CR7 Timeline. (@TimelineCR7) June 19, 2025
Team Selections and Tactical Insights
Inter Miami’s starting lineup featured a blend of experience and youth. Ustari was in goal, supported by a back four of Ian Fray, Maximiliano Falcón, Noah Allen, and Marcelo Weigandt. The midfield included Sergio Busquets, Telasco Segovia, and Benjamin Cremaschi, with the attacking line led by Messi, Suárez, and Tadeo Allende.
Notably, Jordi Alba began the match on the bench. While known for his chemistry with Messi, Alba has been inconsistent defensively in MLS play, which may have influenced the decision. The inclusion of Cremaschi over Federico Redondo also pointed to a preference for more energy and attacking transition.
FC Porto deployed a 5-3-2 formation. Cláudio Ramos stood between the posts, behind defenders João Mário, Ivan Marcano, Martim Fernandes, Zé Pedro, and Francisco Moura. Their midfield trio included Fábio Vieira, Gabri Veiga, and Alan Varela, with Aghehowa and Rodrigo Mora up top.
The Portuguese side’s shape allowed them to absorb pressure and counter effectively, forcing Miami to play through wide areas, where they found little joy.
HT: Inter Miami 0-1 FC Porto pic.twitter.com/xqg4mvmcDE
— Leo Messi 🔟 Fan Club (@WeAreMessi) June 19, 2025
Group A: What’s at Stake
This result heavily impacts the dynamics of Group A, especially after Palmeiras defeated Al Ahly 2-0 earlier in the day. With Palmeiras on three points and Porto now matching them, Inter Miami faces a steep uphill climb after earning just a point in their earlier draw against Al Ahly.
For Miami, qualification for the knockout stage now hinges on both results and goal difference. A win in their final group game is essential, and they’ll need to hope for favorable outcomes in the other fixtures.
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Tensions On and Off the Pitch
The 2025 Club World Cup has already delivered its fair share of off-field drama, including a bizarre press event involving Juventus and Donald Trump, which drew attention for all the wrong reasons. But on the field, it’s all business — and for Inter Miami, it’s now do-or-die.
Despite fielding international legends, the American side appeared unsettled by the early goal and struggled to find cohesion. Messi’s moments of magic were few, and although Suárez was active, clear chances were rare.
Looking Ahead
FC Porto leaves the field with a massive three points and momentum heading into their next match. For Inter Miami, the focus shifts to regrouping — tactically and mentally — before their final group stage game, where only a win will realistically keep their tournament hopes alive.
With global stars, high stakes, and little margin for error, the pressure on Miami has never been greater. Their response in the next match will determine whether this tournament becomes a brief cameo or a serious campaign.
