
Messi Set for PSG Reunion as Inter Miami Celebrate Historic Club World Cup Progress
Lionel Messi to Face Former Club in Club World Cup Last-16 After Inter Miami’s MLS Milestone
It doesn’t get much more poetic than this. Lionel Messi, the greatest player of his generation, is set to face his former club, Paris Saint-Germain, in a blockbuster FIFA Club World Cup last-16 showdown. For Inter Miami CF, it marks not just another fixture in their short but ambitious history – it marks a breakthrough moment for Major League Soccer (MLS).
After being granted a special invitation to the Club World Cup, few outside the United States believed Inter Miami would truly make their mark. But now, after navigating an extremely competitive Group A, David Beckham’s Florida-based franchise has etched its name into the tournament’s knockout rounds, earning a dream matchup with the reigning Champions League winners.
And the subplot? It just happens to feature Messi coming face to face with the club he left only a short time ago.
A Special Match in the Making

Lionel Messi Inter Miami 2025 FIFA Club World Cup
Messi vs PSG: A Personal and Professional Reunion
When Messi left Barcelona in 2021 and joined Paris Saint-Germain, it was billed as a superteam in the making. For two seasons, he played alongside Kylian Mbappe and Neymar, winning Ligue 1 titles but falling short in Europe. Despite some magical moments, the PSG chapter of Messi’s career felt like a detour rather than a destination.
Now, as an Inter Miami player, he’s found something closer to home – both literally and emotionally. The freedom to lead, the appreciation of fans, and a project he can help shape from the ground up. Facing PSG isn’t just another match for Messi; it’s a reunion, a reflection, and perhaps even an opportunity to remind the world of what they once had.
Noah Allen, the young Inter Miami fullback, captured the sentiment well:
“I don’t know what he’s thinking for sure, but I think it’s a special match for the team. A historic match, especially being in the round of 16, you know, the pressure of the tournament. So, I think it will be a big match.”
Big match, indeed.
Inter Miami’s Route to the Knockouts
Group A: Porto, Palmeiras, and Al Ahly No Match for Miami’s Spirit
Inter Miami entered the Club World Cup with modest expectations. After all, the tournament featured global powerhouses and seasoned continental champions. But the Herons proved their resilience and flair in Group A.
- Matchday 1: A thrilling 2-1 win over Porto, courtesy of late drama and Messi’s guiding influence.
- Matchday 2: A gritty 0-0 draw against Al Ahly, one of Africa’s most decorated clubs.
- Matchday 3: A high-octane 2-2 draw against Palmeiras, securing the point needed to advance.
With five points from three games, Inter Miami not only topped expectations – they made history. No other North American team managed to get through the group stage, with Seattle Sounders and LAFC bowing out.
Mascherano’s Praise: “A Historic Night for MLS”
Inter Miami Carries the Flag for North America
Few figures in world football know Messi as well as Javier Mascherano. The Argentine legend, now on punditry duty with DAZN, was full of praise for Inter Miami’s performance.
“Before the start of the tournament, if someone told me that we were going to have this kind of performance against these kinds of teams, I’d sign on. So I appreciate the team, the guys, all the players, because they gave more than 100 percent. I think it’s a historic night for MLS, because we are into the best 16 teams in the world. So I think all of MLS has to be proud of Inter Miami.”
His words echo what many are now beginning to realize: Inter Miami isn’t just Messi and friends – it’s a legitimate force that represents the evolution of MLS into a globally relevant competition.
All Eyes on Atlanta: Inter Miami vs PSG
Date, Venue and What’s at Stake
The much-anticipated Inter Miami vs PSG clash is set for June 29 at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta. The arena, typically home to Atlanta United and the NFL’s Atlanta Falcons, will be transformed into a global stage. It promises to be a capacity crowd, with anticipation reaching fever pitch.
The match isn’t just about nostalgia. PSG, despite losing Mbappe to Real Madrid, remain a juggernaut. With new stars like Bradley Barcola and Warren Zaïre-Emery, and with Luis Enrique at the helm, they’re looking to make a statement.
For Inter Miami, it’s a chance to showcase their credentials against the European elite. For MLS, it’s a once-in-a-generation opportunity to prove the league’s growth and potential.
And for Lionel Messi? It’s one more dance under the lights. Against old teammates. On a world stage. In front of his new footballing family.
Final Word: A Club World Cup Moment to Remember
The FIFA Club World Cup has often flown under the radar in European-dominated football discourse. But this year, it has delivered rich narratives. None more compelling than Inter Miami’s rise and Messi’s reunion with PSG.
June 29 in Atlanta is shaping up to be more than just a football match. It’s a celebration of Messi’s past and present, a statement from MLS, and potentially, a classic in the making.
For now, all we can do is wait. But come matchday, the world will be watching.
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