Paris Saint-Germain will face Inter Miami in the Round of 16 at the ongoing Club World Cup 2025 in the United States, setting up what many football enthusiasts are already dubbing "The Lionel Messi Derby."
The highly anticipated match will see Argentine superstar Lionel Messi potentially facing his former club PSG, where he played before making his move to Major League Soccer (MLS).
How Inter Miami Secured Their Spot
Inter Miami confirmed their place in the knockout stage following a dramatic 2-2 draw with Palmeiras. The MLS side initially built a comfortable two-goal advantage, with Tadeo Allende opening the scoring in the first half before Luis Suarez doubled their lead after the break.
However, the Brazilian club mounted a remarkable comeback, scoring twice within a seven-minute spell toward the end of the match. Paulinho reduced the deficit before Mauricio leveled the score, but the draw was enough for Inter Miami to advance.
MLS Representation
Inter Miami's qualification is particularly significant as they are the only MLS team to reach the last 16 of the tournament. Both Los Angeles FC and Seattle Sounders were eliminated in the group stages, leaving Miami as the sole representative of American club football in the knockout rounds.
Despite the draw, Palmeiras topped their group and have also qualified for the next round. The Brazilian side will face fellow South American club Botafogo in their Round of 16 fixture.
The tournament has already seen nine teams eliminated from competition, with several high-profile clubs failing to progress beyond the group stage.
Football fans worldwide will now eagerly anticipate the Messi Derby, which promises to be one of the most watched fixtures of the expanded Club World Cup format.
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