FIFA Club World Cup 2025: Group A Standings- Lionel Messi To Face Ex Club PSG After Finishing 2nd

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Inter Miami and Palmeiras played out a thrilling 2-2 draw in their final Group A fixture of the FIFA Club World Cup on Monday, a result that saw both teams advance to the Round of 16. Palmeiras topped the group on goal difference, while Inter Miami secured second place.

As a result, Inter Miami will face Paris Saint-Germain, Messi's ex club, and Palmeiras will meet Brazilian rivals Botafogo in the next round.

Inter Miami started strongly, taking the lead in the 16th minute through Tadeo Allende, who sliced through a static Palmeiras backline with a 40-metre solo run before calmly slotting the ball past the goalkeeper. Miami doubled their advantage in the 65th minute when Luis Suárez, quiet until then, cut in from the right and curled a stunning left-footed strike into the top corner from a tight angle.

Despite trailing 0-2, Palmeiras refused to back down. Their comeback began in the 80th minute with substitute Paulinho calmly placing a low finish into the far corner. Just seven minutes later, Mauricio capitalized on a poor clearance, smashing home the equalizer from the edge of the box to level the score at 2-2 and ensure Palmeiras retain top spot in Group A.

Lionel Messi, who turned 38 on the day, played the full match for Inter Miami. Though he didn't score or assist, he was influential in the midfield, registering two shots-one on target and another narrowly over the bar. His dribbling and incisive passing created several promising opportunities, earning him a match rating of 7.2 from MyKhel.

With both LAFC and Seattle Sounders eliminated following a 4-4 draw, Inter Miami remains the only MLS side in the competition. Messi will now prepare for a blockbuster clash against his former side PSG, while Palmeiras set up a domestic showdown with Botafogo, promising more fireworks in the knockout phase.

Here's a look at the final standings:-