Lionel Messi and Inter Miami boss sends message ahead of 'third match' in Club World Cup | Sporting News

Inter Miami's historic win against FC Porto in the Club World Cup boosts their chances ahead of their next match against Palmeiras, making them an attractive bet for punters seeking to back the team as they aim for qualification.

Inter Miami bagged a 2-1 win against FC Porto in their second match of the Club World Cup on June 18 at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia. After Porto opened their scoring with Samu Aghehowa successfully converting a penalty in the eighth minute, Telasco Segovia netted the equalizer for Inter Miami in the 47th minute. Lionel Messi scored the winning goal for the Herons in the 54th minute, creating history for Inter Miami and Major League Soccer by becoming the first club of the league to achieve victory over a European side in an official competition. This was also Inter Miami's first-ever win at the Club World Cup.

Speaking after the match, head coach Javier Mascherano hailed (comments via GOAL) his squad and their efforts on the pitch and said, "First of all, I want to congratulate the players for the game they played. Beyond the result, it was a source of pride to watch them play with courage, both with and without the ball. Today we’ve shown that we can compete against any team in the world."

"If we have a plan and stick together - and if we dare to play - we can compete. The way the team overcame the adversity of the match, staying true to our identity, was admirable. Everyone remained committed to what we’re trying to do," the Argentine coach added.

Inter Miami were on the receiving end of a goalless draw against Egyptian side Al Ahly in the first match of the Club World Cup, on June 14 at Hard Rock Stadium, Florida. With the recent win, Messi-led Inter Miami are now headed to their third and last group-stage match in the competition.

During his post-match press conference, Mascherano mentioned that the Herons now have a 'real shot at qualifying.' “Everyone should enjoy this in their own way. Everyone contributes their part to help this club keep moving forward. It means we’re still alive. We head into our third match with a real shot at qualifying," he said.

Inter Miami will now face Brazilian side Palmeiras in the Club World Cup on June 23, at Hard Rock Stadium.

Sporting News