Lionel Messi was the main culprit in Inter Miami’s humiliating 4-0 defeat against Paris Saint-Germain in the FIFA Club World Cup last-16 encounter that took place in Atlanta.
Messi, who was attempting to beat his former club for the first time, was powerless to inspire a comeback as the European champions racked up goals from the very beginning. Joáo Neves flicked in Vitinha’s free kick with a header from unmarked spot to open the scoring in the sixth minute.
Miami tried to protect the lead until half-time, but PSG set off a punch-drunk streak at the end of the first half which lasted for nine minutes and was absolutely devastating. Neves scored after a high press set up by Fabián Ruiz allowed a slick team move to happen.
Just after that, substitute Tomás Avilés unwittingly put the ball in his own net, and Achraf Hakimi made it 4-0 when he was the quickest to react after the rebound of his own shot hit the bar. With the result almost guaranteed, PSG relaxed in the second half.
Messi had two shots on target, including a late header, but Gianluigi Donnarumma was up to both saves. Miami’s campaign, which was unbeaten throughout the group stage, has come to an end abruptly, however, the loss was against a much stronger opponent.
PSG continue their march to the quarter-finals where they are set to play against Flamengo or Bayern Munich on Saturday.
