June 25, 2025

Miami’s Heart-Stopping Draw Sends Both Teams into Knockout Rounds



MIAMI GARDENS, Fla., June 24, 2025 — Inter Miami produced a stunning performance at Hard Rock Stadium today, surging to a 2‑0 lead against South American powerhouse Palmeiras before watching the Brazilian side storm back to earn a dramatic 2‑2 draw. The result sends both teams safely into the Round of 16 at the expanded FIFA Club World Cup.


Led by coach Javier Mascherano, the Herons struck early when Tadeo Allende exploded past Palmeiras’ defense in the 16th minute, driving home a clinical finish to break the deadlock. The momentum stayed firmly with Miami as legend Luis Suárez doubled the lead in the 65th minute, curling a sublime left-footed strike into the top corner .


It seemed Miami would top the group, but Palmeiras staged a stunning comeback. Paulinho pulled one goal back in the 80th minute, and Mauricio completed the revival with a sharp finish in the 87th, leveling the scoreline .


Both clubs ended the group stage on five points, with Palmeiras claiming Group A’s top spot on superior goal difference and Miami finishing level second . Al Ahly and Porto were both eliminated despite their thrilling 4–4 draw .




  • Historic milestone: Inter Miami became the first MLS side to reach the knockout stages in this tournament format .
  • Next challenge: They now face UEFA Champions League holders Paris Saint‑Germain in the Round of 16 this coming Sunday in Atlanta — a monumental clash and a stark turnaround for Messi as he prepares to face his former club .
  • Mascherano’s reaction: “If someone told me we were going to have this kind of performance against these teams, I would have signed it,” said the coach, calling it a “historic night” for MLS .


 

Player Highlights



  • Tadeo Allende: A decisive breakaway finish to open the scoring.
  • Luis Suárez: Vintage Suárez—set up Allende early on and scored a jaw-dropping solo goal in the second half .
  • Palmeiras substitutes: Paulinho and Mauricio turned the tables late in the match, underlining the depth of the Brazilian side .


Looking Ahead



  • Inter Miami vs. Paris Saint‑Germain — Sunday, June 29, 12 pm ET (DAZN), Atlanta
  • Palmeiras vs. Botafogo — a heavyweight Brazilian clash Saturday, June 28



Both matches carry immense stakes—and narrative drama. Miami will look to continue its historic run under the spotlight, while Messi will face his former club on his special day.




Overall, Miami showcased bold attacking flair, tactical grit, and MLS’s growing competitive edge on the global stage. Even in a late swoon, their achievement sends a clear message: this tournament is no longer just European or South American territory.




Watch the Highlights

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