On June 23, 2025, a dramatic showdown at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens saw Inter Miami and Palmeiras battle to a 2–2 draw in their final Group A match of the FIFA Club World Cup. The result secured both teams a spot in the Round of 16 Palmeiras edged out Miami as group winners on goal difference (both ended with five points).
First-half: Miami Takes Command
- In the 16th minute, Inter Miami struck with a swift counterattack. Federico Redondo initiated the move by stealing possession, Luis Suárez chested the ball forward, and Argentine forward Tadeo Allende sprinted onto it and coolly slotted past goalkeeper Weverton to make it 1–0.
First half: Miami Takes Command
In the 16th minute, Inter Miami struck with a swift counterattack. Federico Redondo initiated the move by stealing possession, Luis Suárez chested the ball forward, and Argentine forward Tadeo Allende sprinted onto it and coolly slotted past goalkeeper Weverton to make it 1–0
Throughout the opening half, Miami controlled the tempo registering around 59% possession and looked to capitalize on defensive lapses by Palmeiras, especially after defender Murilo exited injured, replaced by Bruno Fuchs.
Suarez’s Magic Doubles the Lead
Early in the second half, in the 65th minute, veteran striker Luis Suárez pulled off a trademark solo run reminiscent of his Barcelona days. From half bpitch, he weaved past defenders and unleashed a powerful half volley into the top corner to extend the lead to 2–0
Suarez’s Magic Doubles the Lead
Early in the second half, in the 65th minute, veteran striker Luis Suárez pulled off a trademark solo run reminiscent of his Barcelona days. From half pitch, he weaved past defenders and unleashed a powerful half volley into the top corner to extend the lead to 2–0.
Suárez later reflected that this was one of his most beautiful goals and underscored that Miami must maintain focus for the full 97 minutes of high stakes matches.
Late Drama: Palmeiras Fightback
- In the 80th minute, Palmeiras substitute Paulinho pulled one back stepping in on a clever diagonal pass and planting a low shot into the corner.
- Just seven minutes later, Mauricio fired in from close range to equalize Palmeiras had transformed a two goal deficit into parity, snatching the top spot on goal difference.
- Miami nearly conceded again late, but vital saves kept the draw intact.
Group A Final Standings
| Team | W | D | L | GF-GA | Pts |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Palmeiras | 1 | 2 | 0 | +2 | 5 |
| Inter Miami | 1 | 2 | 0 | +1 | 5 |
| Porto | 0 | 2 | 1 | –1 | 2 |
| Al Ahly | 0 | 2 | 1 | –2 | 2 |
-Al Ahly vs Porto drew 4–4 earlier, but both were eliminated.
Key Quotes
Luis Suárez (Inter Miami):
“Nos queda un poco de sabor amargo teníamos la victoria ahí para quedar primeros de grupo La competición te dice eso: tienes que estar 97 minutos concentrados”.
Javier Mascherano (Inter Miami coach):
“It was a great game from us Maybe at the end we had the game in our hands so the feeling is strange but… before the start… I would have signed it.” He hailed reaching the knockout stage as a historic night for MLS.
Noah Allen (Inter Miami defender):
“We will face European champions We won’t be afraid of anything,” acknowledging pride in the team’s resolve.
What’s Next?
- Inter Miami, seeded 2nd in Group A, will clash with Paris Saint Germain Messi’s former UEFA Champions League winning club in the Round of 16 in Atlanta on Sunday, June 29.
- Palmeiras, as Group A winners, will take on Botafogo (Group B runner up) in Philadelphia on Saturday, June 28.
Tactical Insights
- Miami surged forward with a direct style Redondo’s interceptions, Suárez’s chest control, and Allende’s counterattacks excelled.
- Suárez, despite his veteran status, showed he remains a cut above; his solo goal was a statement reminiscent of his prime.
- Palmeiras showcased resilience and depth. Their late subs transformed momentum, exemplifying South American tenacity .
- Miami’s lack of sustained intensity in the final 10 minutes cost them the group top spot a lesson Mascherano emphasized.
Player Evaluations
- Tadeo Allende: 1.0 goal; a dangerous breakout weapon on the counter . creative setup; still central to Miami’s attack .
- Paulinho & Mauricio (Palmeiras subs): Impactful late substitutes, turning the tide with precision finishes.
- Oscar Ustari (Miami GK): Crucial late saves ensured the draw.
Big Picture & Next Frontier
This match underscores a key moment for MLS Inter Miami have become the only U.S. team to advance into the knockout stages of the Club World Cup, outpacing LAFC and Seattle. With Messi, Suárez, Busquets, and Mascherano all contributing, the squad blends global experience with MLS momentum.
Their upcoming showdown with PSG featuring Mbappé, Neymar, and Messi’s own past club sets up a high stakes, high drama encounter. Meanwhile, Palmeiras will test their mettle against an old domestic rival, Botafogo.
✔️ Final Thoughts
- Miami’s journey: A mesmerizing display of MLS evolution skill, clutch performances, and awareness against powerhouse teams.
- Lessons learned: The draw, while effective for qualification, cost them control atop the group. Focus over full 90+ minutes is critical.
- What to watch next: Can Miami’s aging stars match up athletically with PSG? Can Palmeiras maintain their comeback identity under pressure?
- This 2–2 draw wasn’t just an exciting match; it was a statement moment in global soccer where a rising league took center stage, and legends wielded their magic on an international platform.