Inter Miami let a two-goal lead slip late on but still secured progression to the knockout stages of the FIFA Club World Cup following a dramatic 2-2 draw against Palmeiras at Hard Rock Stadium, MySportDab Reports.
The Herons made a dream start, opening the scoring in the 16th minute through Tadeo Allende. The Argentine raced clear after a clever chest pass from Luis Suárez, holding off Murilo Cerqueira—who pulled up injured in pursuit—before calmly finishing past Palmeiras goalkeeper Weverton.
Javier Mascherano’s side looked composed in possession and defensively sound for much of the first half. While Palmeiras created several chances, Inter Miami’s compact structure kept the Brazilians at bay.
Allende nearly doubled his tally shortly after the break, again played through by Suárez, but this time his finish flew narrowly wide.
Suárez did eventually find the net in the 65th minute, showcasing his trademark skill to beat Bruno Fuchs before blasting past Weverton with a powerful left-footed strike. At 2-0 up, Miami looked poised to claim top spot in Group A.
However, Palmeiras launched a late rally. Substitute Paulinho halved the deficit in the 80th minute with a composed finish after linking up with Allan. The equaliser arrived eight minutes later when Mauricio unleashed a thunderous shot from distance to punish Miami’s fatigued defence.
Although Palmeiras pushed for a winner in stoppage time, the match ended level. The result means Palmeiras finish top of Group A, unbeaten with five points, while Inter Miami settle for second place with the same tally but an inferior goal difference.
The draw sets up a blockbuster Round of 16 clash for the Herons, who now face defending UEFA Champions League winners Paris Saint-Germain—a mouth-watering encounter that promises fireworks on and off the pitch.
