Inter miami vs palmeiras in Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida, buzzed with anticipation as Inter Miami CF faced off against Brazilian giants Palmeiras in their final group stage match of the FIFA Club World Cup. The match, attended by over 60,000 passionate fans, ended in a dramatic 2-2 draw, securing Inter Miami’s place in the Round of 16 and marking a historic moment for Major League Soccer (MLS). This pulsating encounter showcased the grit, talent, and resilience of Inter Miami, while also highlighting the challenges they face as they prepare to take on European champions Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) next. Let’s dive into the key moments, standout performances, and what this result means for Inter Miami’s journey in the global spotlight.
A Dream Start for Inter Miami
From the opening whistle, the atmosphere at Hard Rock Stadium was electric, though the crowd was split almost evenly between Inter Miami’s pink-clad supporters and the vocal Palmeiras fans, creating the feel of an away game for the hosts. Palmeiras, known for their high-pressing, intense style, started aggressively, but their early efforts lacked precision in the final third. Inter Miami, under the guidance of coach Javier Mascherano, capitalized on this in the 16th minute. Attacker Tadeo Allende seized a loose ball, embarked on a blistering 40-meter run, and coolly slotted it past Palmeiras goalkeeper Weverton to give Miami a 1-0 lead. The stadium erupted as Allende’s goal set the tone for a confident first half, with Inter Miami dominating possession at 59% and limiting Palmeiras to just one shot on target.
The second half saw Inter Miami continue their momentum. Lionel Messi, the team’s talismanic captain, nearly doubled the lead with a dipping volley from distance that sailed just over the bar, bringing fans to their feet. Then, in the 65th minute, Luis Suárez, the Uruguayan legend, showcased his timeless quality. After weaving past a defender with a deft touch, Suárez unleashed a powerful left-footed strike into the top corner from a tight angle, making it 2-0. The goal, his first in the 2025 Club World Cup and his sixth in the competition’s history, was a vintage Suárez moment, earning him the player-of-the-match award. His assist for Allende’s opener further underlined his impact, proving that at 38, he remains a force to be reckoned with.
Palmeiras’ Late Comeback
With a two-goal lead and the match seemingly under control, Inter Miami appeared poised to secure first place in Group A. However, Palmeiras, spurred on by their passionate supporters and coach Abel Ferreira’s halftime adjustments, staged a dramatic late comeback. In the 80th minute, substitute Paulinho found space in the box and guided a low shot past goalkeeper Óscar Ustari, cutting the deficit to 2-1. The Brazilian side’s momentum surged, and just seven minutes later, Mauricio capitalized on a loose clearance, converting a penalty to level the score at 2-2. The late collapse was a bitter pill for Inter Miami, who had squandered multiple chances to extend their lead earlier in the match.
Despite the disappointment of letting a two-goal advantage slip, the draw was enough to secure Inter Miami’s advancement to the Round of 16, finishing second in Group A with five points (1 win, 2 draws). Palmeiras, also on five points, claimed the top spot due to a superior goal difference. The result eliminated Al-Ahly and FC Porto, who drew 4-4 in a thrilling parallel match, ensuring both Inter Miami and Palmeiras progressed to the knockout stage.
A Historic Achievement for MLS
This match was more than just a draw; it was a landmark moment for Inter Miami and MLS. As the only MLS team to reach the Round of 16, following the elimination of Los Angeles FC and Seattle Sounders, Inter Miami proved they could compete with the world’s elite. Their campaign, which included a historic 2-1 victory over FC Porto—the first time a CONCACAF team defeated a European opponent in an official competition—has elevated the profile of MLS on the global stage. Coach Mascherano described the night as “historic,” emphasizing the challenge of facing “one of the best teams in South America” and the significance of advancing unbeaten in the group stage.
The match also highlighted the star power of Inter Miami’s veteran core. Messi, Suárez, Sergio Busquets, and Jordi Alba, all former Barcelona teammates, brought their experience to bear, with Suárez’s goal and assist stealing the show. However, the late defensive lapses raised questions about the team’s depth and ability to close out high-stakes matches, a concern echoed by some fans on social media who criticized the backline’s performance.
Looking Ahead: A Blockbuster Clash with PSG
Inter Miami’s reward for their group stage heroics is a Round of 16 showdown with PSG on June 29 at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta. The matchup carries extra intrigue, as it pits Messi against his former club, where he played from 2021 to 2023. Additionally, PSG’s coach, Luis Enrique, previously managed Messi, Suárez, Busquets, Alba, and Mascherano at Barcelona, adding a layer of familiarity and rivalry. A victory would propel Inter Miami into the quarterfinals against the winner of CR Flamengo vs. FC Bayern Munich, a daunting but exciting prospect.
What This Means for Inter Miami
The draw against Palmeiras showcased both Inter Miami’s potential and their vulnerabilities. Their ability to take a two-goal lead against a powerhouse like Palmeiras demonstrates their attacking prowess and resilience, but the late collapse underscores the need for greater defensive solidity in the knockout rounds. As they prepare for PSG, Mascherano will likely focus on tightening the backline while relying on the experience of his star players to navigate the pressure of a win-or-go-home scenario.
For fans, the match was a rollercoaster of emotions—a testament to the drama and unpredictability of the Club World Cup. Inter Miami’s journey has already exceeded expectations, and with Messi leading the charge, they have a chance to make more history. As Suárez himself noted post-match, the team’s veteran players rely on their intelligence and experience to compete at this level, a formula that could prove crucial against PSG.
In conclusion, Inter Miami’s 2-2 draw with Palmeiras was a microcosm of their Club World Cup campaign: thrilling, historic, and not without flaws. As they head to Atlanta to face PSG, the Herons carry the hopes of MLS and a fanbase eager to see them defy the odds once more. Whether they can rise to the occasion remains to be seen, but one thing is clear—this Inter Miami team is writing a new chapter in American soccer history.