The 2025 FIFA Club World Cup delivered a thrilling matchday, as five headline-grabbing games showcased late winners, major upsets, and standout performances by South American clubs over European heavyweights.
Messi Magic Lifts Inter Miami Over Porto
Lionel Messi was the difference-maker as Inter Miami edged FC Porto 2-1 in Group A. After going behind to a Samu Aghehowa penalty in the eighth minute, Miami responded through Telasco Segovia early in the second half. Then, in the 54th minute, Messi curled in a sensational free-kick to secure the win — his 68th career goal from such a situation.
Despite having fewer chances than Porto, Inter Miami capitalized on clinical finishing. The result marked a historic first win for a Concacaf team over European opposition in a FIFA club competition.
Atlético Madrid Rebounds With Seattle Win
In Group B, Pablo Barrios scored twice as Atlético Madrid beat Seattle Sounders 3-1. Barrios opened the scoring in the 11th minute and added another after the break. Axel Witsel also found the net, while Albert Rusnák scored Seattle’s lone goal.
The Spanish club bounced back after a heavy loss to PSG, leaving Seattle’s qualification hopes hanging by a thread.
Botafogo Upset Champions League Winners PSG
Botafogo shocked PSG 1-0 to top their group with two wins in two games. Igor Jesus netted the only goal with an impressive individual effort in the 36th minute, ending PSG’s 19-match scoring streak.
The Brazilian side defended resolutely, allowing just two shots on target despite PSG dominating possession. Botafogo’s coach Renato Paiva praised his team’s unity: “Just be a team, enjoy playing together, attack together, defend together, and enjoy. And they did.”
Benfica Crush Auckland City After Storm Delay
In Group C, Benfica dismantled Auckland City 6-0, with Ángel Di María and Leandro Barreiro scoring twice each. Di María’s goals came from the penalty spot at the end of each half, while goals from Pavlidis, Sanches, and Barreiro highlighted Benfica’s dominance.
A severe thunderstorm delayed the match at halftime, but the Portuguese side stormed through the second half once play resumed.
Flamengo Stuns Chelsea With Second-Half Rally
Brazilian giants Flamengo came from behind to defeat Chelsea 3-1 in Group D. Pedro Neto gave Chelsea the early lead, but Flamengo responded with goals from Bruno Henrique, Danilo, and Wallace Yan in the second half.
A pivotal moment came when Chelsea’s Nicolas Jackson was sent off in the 68th minute, just after Flamengo had taken the lead. The result gave Flamengo six points from two games and put them in pole position to reach the knockout stages.
“This matchday highlighted the resurgence of South American football at the global level, with two Brazilian clubs—Botafogo and Flamengo—securing statement wins over European giants, showcasing tactical discipline and attacking flair.”