Palmeiras Secures Top Spot After Draw Against Inter Miami

MIAMI: A late surge from Palmeiras resulted in a 2-2 draw against Inter Miami, allowing the Brazilian side to clinch first place in Group A and advance to the FIFA Club World Cup’s round of 16. The match was held at Hard Rock Stadium on Monday.

Despite holding a 2-0 advantage with only ten minutes left on the clock, Inter Miami had to settle for a draw, though both teams will progress to the next stage.

Inter Miami initially took the lead when Tadeo Allende scored in the 16th minute after an impressive 40-metre run.

Luis Suarez increased their lead in the 65th minute with a remarkable shot into the upper corner of the net.

Miami maintained control of the match until Palmeiras launched a determined comeback, demonstrating resilience and urgency in the final minutes. Paulinho narrowed the gap in the 80th minute, and just seven minutes later, Mauricio Magalhaes Prado scored the equalizing goal, pushing Palmeiras to the group’s summit.

Palmeiras finished first due to a superior goal difference, despite tying with Inter Miami on five points.

Al-Ahly and Porto were eliminated following a 4-4 draw in their final group encounter.

Palmeiras is now scheduled to compete against fellow Brazilian team Botafogo, while Inter Miami is preparing for a high-profile match against Paris Saint-Germain.

Inter Miami’s coach, Javier Mascherano, commended his team’s showing and recognised Palmeiras as a leading team in South America.

“It was a great game from us. It’s difficult to play against one of the best teams in South America,” Mascherano stated.

“Perhaps towards the end, we almost secured the win, so the feeling is a bit mixed. However, before the tournament, if someone had suggested we would perform this well against such strong teams, I would have gladly accepted it.”