Inter Miami Advance to Knockouts After 2–2 Draw with Palmeiras
Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami booked their place in the last 16 of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup after an enthralling 2–2 draw with Palmeiras from Brazil on June 22, 2025. The game had been staged at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta before over 70,000 fans.
- Messi assisted Luis Suárez and gave a crucial contribution in a creative role.
- The lottery went Miami’s way, with them sneaking through, based on a superior goal difference as they finish level on points with Madrid.
Atletico Madrid’s Wipeout Despite Win
One of the tournament favorites, Atletico Madrid, was wiped out in the Club World Cup group stage after losing 4-0 to Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) in the earlier phases.
- Atletico and Inter Miami both ended up with 4 points.
- But Miami had a better goal differential, wiping out Atletico in a surprising early exit.
- Coach Diego Simeone was the main target of sharp criticism as his team Atletico Madrid could not make it to the knockouts for the second straight year.
Last 16: Messi v His Old Club PSG
The knockout stage sets up a blockbuster clash: Inter Miami vs. PSG—a game that brings Messi face-to-face with his former club and some of his ex-teammates.
- It’s all down now to that mouthwatering clash against Inter Miami versus PSG where Messi will meet his old club and some ex-teammates.
- The match is to take place in Atlanta which means a reunion between Messi and stars like Mbappé from PSG.
- This sets him up against a former mentor in Luis Enrique, an intriguing subplot.
PSG made it through with a spotless record. They crushed Atletico Madrid 4–0 and tied 1–1 with.
Club World Cup 2025: A New Era
This FIFA Club World Cup shall be the US edition and the very first under expanded 32-team format, comparable to that of the FIFA World Cup.
- Inter Miami is one of four CONCACAF representatives.
- PSG and Atletico are qualifiers from UEFA, and Palmeiras from CONMEBOL.
This tournament features top clubs from every continent; global attention is guaranteed with Messi’s presence.
Group Summary
| Club | Points | Goal Difference | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| PSG | 7 | +4 | Qualified |
| Inter Miami | 4 | 0 | Qualified |
| Atletico Madrid | 4 | -3 | Eliminated |
| Palmeiras | 1 | -1 | Out |
