Football fans around the world are in for a treat as Lionel Messi is set to face his former club, Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), in the Round of 16 at the FIFA Club World Cup 2025. The highly anticipated clash will take place on June 29, 2025, in Atlanta, and marks Messi’s first official encounter against the French champions since his departure in 2023.
Messi’s current side, Inter Miami, secured their place in the knockout stage with a hard-fought 2-2 draw against Palmeiras in their final Group A match. The result was enough to see the Major League Soccer (MLS) outfit finish second in their group and set up a dramatic showdown with the reigning UEFA Champions League winners.
Miami’s Road to the Knockouts
Inter Miami’s journey to the Round of 16 was anything but straightforward. The team, led by Messi and fellow star players like Luis Suárez and Jordi Alba, had mixed results in the group stage. A win, a loss, and a crucial draw against Brazilian giants Palmeiras ensured their progress.
In their final group match, Miami started strong, with Messi opening the scoring in the first half, showcasing the kind of magic that has defined his career. A second goal from Leonardo Campana gave Miami a comfortable cushion. However, Palmeiras mounted a late comeback, scoring twice in the final 15 minutes to level the match.
Despite the tense finish, the draw was enough for Miami to hold on to second place in Group A, booking a date with one of Europe’s most formidable teams.
Lionel Messi Emotional Reunion
The upcoming fixture is significant for Messi on a personal level. The Argentine superstar spent two seasons at PSG after leaving FC Barcelona in 2021. While he lifted two Ligue 1 titles during his time in the French capital, Messi’s stint at PSG was marked by ups and downs, with criticism from some sections of the fanbase and an early Champions League exit in 2023.
