From the weakest team in Group A, Inter Miami has made history for the club by qualifying for the round of 16 of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup.
They drew 2-2 with Palmeiras at hard Rock Stadium when goals from Tadeo Allende and Luis Suarez surprised fans, while also securing a ticket to the knockout round for Miami.
Palmeiras fans at Miami Gardens cried when the stadium announcer introduced Lionel Messi and Suarez in an attempt to weaken Inter Miami. But in the second half, the pink smoke filled the area behind the Palmeiras goal as Inter Miami fans celebrated.
Before the tournament started, Inter Miami players and management restrained expectations by admitting that the team lacked squad depth and did not reach the level of other participating teams.
"It's clear that we're not good enough to compete in the FIFA Club World Cup. However, we will try to compete in our group," midfielder Sergio Busquets said in May.
Head coach Rafael Mascherano and co-owner Jorge Mas have eased their worries by aiming for the round of 16, considering it a success. In the end, Inter Miami exceeded expectations when they continued from the group including FC Porto, Palmeiras and Al Ahly.
Suarez and Messi scored important goals in the group stage to bring the club success. However, the real credit should belong to the "sub-actors", the players who are inexperienced.
Players such as Noah Allen, Ian Fray and Benjamin Cremaschi have grown up from Inter Miami's academy. They have never been exposed to the intensity of European or South American football before facing Porto and Palmeiras in a possible scenario.
Despite some initial errors, the young players adapted well to the requirements of the tournament to help Inter Miami pass the group stage.
"Before the tournament, I didn't think we would be able to play like that. Therefore, I really appreciate the efforts of the players, they have contributed more than 100% to reach this historic milestone.
This is a historic evening for MLS because Inter Miami is already one of the 16 strongest clubs in the world. MLS must be very proud of Inter Miami" - Mascherano said.
Now, Miami are headed into the round of 16 to face their biggest challenge to date: Paris St-Germain. Messi is preparing to face his former team in Ligue 1, where he left in an uncomfortable mood.
"We deserved the opportunity to meet the reigning European champions. We know that challenges will be difficult, they are a team that is both strong and profound.
But discipline and fighting spirit will be what we bring to the next match. In the end, every match is still 11 players, and we will try to take advantage of our opportunities" - Mascherano added.
