In one of the most anticipated FIFA Club world cup matches, Paris Saint-Germain ousted Inter Miami. This match also featured an all-time great like Lionel Messi but the fans didn’t get the expected results. Inter Miami from Major League Soccer faced off against the European champions Paris-Saint Germain in one of the biggest matches played by an MLS club. Lionel Messi faced his former squad in what turned out to be a crushing defeat. In this article, you will learn more about this match.
U.S Fans Salivated at the Opportunity of Holding Something over European Soccer Fans
Though soccer fans in the United States thought they would finally get one over the European fans, things didn’t turn out as expected. Messi was facing his former squad in Paris Saint-Germain and it seemed PSG was playing with a goal in mind. They put constant pressure on Inter Miami and were 4-0 over them in the first half.
When PSG loosened their playing style, Inter Miami got some chances but could not capitalize on them. Messi tried but could not get things done in this unique soccer match against his former team.
Final: PSG is 4-0 Against Inter Miami
PSG dominated this first-ever match from the get go. Though Inter Miami got some big chances in the second half, this was only after PSG took a step back trying to maintain their lead. The final ten minutes of the first half was arguably the worst experience for Inter Miami fans as PSG scored three goals in quick succession.
One of those goals was an own goal off the chest of Toto Aviles. He was only in the game to replace an injured Nick Allen. Though fans were desperately hoping that Inter Miami could avoid the shoutout. But right after a free kick from outside the PSG box was easily blocked, it became clear that Miami was not in their element.
Miami’s Best Chance at the Game
With only three minutes to go, Miami earned their best chance of the entire game. After a foul from outside the opponent’s penalty area, Messi received a free kick and an intense look at the PSG net. But unfortunately that didn’t mean much as Messi’s kick bounced off a PSG defender in the front line. Donnarumma is finally relieved as PSG looks to advance to the final eight.
Miami Was Tougher in the Second Half
Though Miami struggled a lot in this match, they were much tougher in the second half. They received some excellent opportunities though they could not capitalize on them. In the 80th minute, they had their best chance to put a header on net. Unfortunately, the opposing goalkeeper was ready and made the save.
Miami’s First Good Chance at the Game
It was clear that PSG finally began playing mildly as they were making several substitutions in the second half. They replaced many of their top players during that time and this is when Miami started to gain their foothold. Within four minutes into the second half, Messi placed a cross into the PSG penalty area for Luis Suarez. But the cross got intercepted by PSG’s goalkeeper, this was an indication that Miami could’ve scored a goal or two in the later minutes.
One Final Goal by Hakimi
Though the lead was already big enough, Hakimi scored in the final ends of the first half taking PSG to 4-0 against Inter Miami. By that time, Miami already looked defeated and had lesser opportunities even compared to the goals PSG scored. By that time, the game looked out of hand for Miami though they did play better in the second half.
PSG Caused Massive Problems for Miami Throughout the Game
PSG chased the ball relentlessly throughout most of the game. Miami was unable to handle this pressure and this is what led to their crushing defeat. The U.S. soccer team had absolutely no answer for PSG’s offense and defense.
Why Did Lionel Messi Leave Paris Saint-Germain?
Messi’s two-year stay at PSG was complex, this is mainly after his return to Paris from the 2022 world cup triumph. During that world cup, he led to Argentina’s big victory over France in the final. It would be tough for Messi to live and work in the same country where many people were heartbroken due to his performance years ago.
Fans voiced their disapproval of Messi after the club suspended him in May 2023. This was after he took an unsanctioned trip to Saudi Arabia the day after a match. These were probably the reasons why Messi left PSG and joined Inter Miami.
Timeframe of Lionel Messi Joining Inter Miami
After leaving Paris Saint-Germain, Messi joined Inter Miami in 2023, a club co-owned by Jorge Mas, Jose Mas and Sir David Beckham.
Who Does the Winner Face in Club World Cup Semi Finals?
The winner of the match PSG is facing the winner of Sunday’s 4 p.m. ET match between Bayern Munich (Germany) and Flamengo (Brazil).
How did Inter Miami Perform in the Club World Cup?
Inter Miami with Messi won a match and there were two draws during the club world cup group stage. Though they lost to PSG in this game, they have wins over FC Porto (Atlanta) and went to a draw against teams like Al-Ahly (Egypt) and Palmeiras (Brazil).
Wrapping Up
Despite having hopes to score a big upset, Inter Miami fell terribly to Paris Saint-Germain. Messi’s return against his former team ended in a big disappointment as PSG defeated Inter Miami 4-0 and advanced to the finals. PSG’s relentless pressure completely routed any chance of a comeback for Inter Miami though they played well in the second half. PSG is advancing to the final eight while Miami exits this tournament having learnt some valuable lessons.
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