Lionel Messi once again demonstrated why he is considered one of the greatest footballers of all time during Inter Miami's thrilling 2-1 victory over Porto in the FIFA Club World Cup. At 37, Messi's precision and skill remain unmatched, as he delivered a vintage free-kick that left goalkeeper Claudio Ramos with no chance.

The Masterclass Free-Kick

Messi's free-kick was a thing of beauty. Positioned centrally on the edge of the D, he opted for the more challenging route—curving the ball over the wall and into the goalkeeper's side. This marked his 68th goal from direct free-kicks, placing him among the elite ranks of Juninho Pernambucano and Pele. Former Portugal defender Jose Fonte aptly described Messi as 'touched by God,' a sentiment echoed by ex-Newcastle goalkeeper Shay Given, who called him a 'genius.'

A Legacy of Excellence

Messi's career is a testament to his unparalleled talent. During the 2011-12 season with Barcelona, he scored an astonishing 73 goals in 60 appearances. His performance in the Club World Cup has been equally remarkable, with 6 goals in 7 appearances, including three in finals. Messi's ability to deliver in crucial moments has cemented his status as a football legend.

Impact on Inter Miami

Since joining Inter Miami, Messi has continued to shine, scoring 50 goals in 61 games and becoming the club's all-time leading goalscorer. His influence extends beyond scoring; he controls the game, dictates the pace, and inspires his teammates. Fafa Picault, Messi's teammate, lauded him as 'the greatest player in the world.'

A Historic Victory

Inter Miami's victory over Porto marked a historic moment for the MLS, as it was the first time an MLS team defeated a European side in an official competition. Manager Javier Mascherano emphasized the significance of this win, stating, 'Today we showed to the world and ourselves that we can compete against any team.'

Looking Ahead

As Messi approaches his 38th birthday, his focus remains on leading Inter Miami to further glory. With a blend of experienced players like Luis Suarez, Sergio Busquets, and Jordi Alba, and emerging talents from the Americas, Inter Miami is poised to make a lasting impact in the football world.

Messi's magic continues to captivate fans worldwide, proving that age is just a number for this football maestro.