From the very first whistle, PSG asserted dominance. João Neves opened the scoring in the 6th minute, before doubling the lead in the 39th. An unfortunate own goal by Tomás Avilés and a clinical strike from Achraf Hakimi saw PSG race to a formidable 4‑0 lead—all before halftime.
Despite some second-half improvements from Miami, Messi’s influence was limited, logging just 14 touches and failing to turn things around during a late free-kick opportunity.
Key Takeaways
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PSG’s ruthless efficiency: Four goals in 45 minutes showcased their clinical precision and tactical superiority .
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Messi’s Club World Cup streak ends: For the first time in his CWC career, Lionel Messi tasted defeat on this stage.
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MLS vs Europe reality check: The result starkly highlighted the quality gap between MLS-level squads and elite European powerhouses.
Coach Mascherano: Framed for Growth
Inter Miami head coach Javier Mascherano maintained a pragmatic outlook, emphasising the learning value from competing against the best:
“There’s a huge lesson to be learned… This is going to help us when we take this to our National League.”
What’s Next?
PSG advance to the quarter-finals and await winners of the Bayern Munich vs Flamengo clash.
Inter Miami, meanwhile, will return to MLS action with former glory rematch at CF Montréal on July 5.
PSG’s dominant display laid bare the gulf in class, ending Messi’s flawless CWC streak and affirming European supremacy—while Miami’s journey, though eye-opening, underscored the immense challenge of stepping up to this level.
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