PSG Thumps Inter Miami 4-0, Shattering Messi's Club World Cup Ambitions OR Inter Miami's Club World Cup Hopes Crushed as PSG Delivers a 4-0 Thrashing OR Messi's Club World Cup Dream Ends as PSG Dominates Inter Miami in Decisive Victory

Lionel Messi's hopes for Club World Cup glory were dashed as Paris Saint-Germain delivered a decisive 4-0 defeat to Inter Miami at Atlanta's Mercedes-Benz Stadium. The loss eliminates Inter Miami from contention for the 2025 Club World Cup.

Lionel Messi dejected during Inter Miami's loss to PSG. (Photo: Reuters)

The match, held on a humid June evening, highlighted the differences between Major League Soccer and top-tier European football. PSG's dominant performance served as a stark reminder of the challenges Inter Miami faces in achieving global competitiveness.

PSG's Early Dominance

From the outset, PSG asserted their control. Just six minutes into the game, Joao Neves headed in the opening goal following a precise free-kick from Vitinha. Neves's unmarked run and powerful header set the tone for PSG's dominance.

Inter Miami's Struggles

Despite boasting a star-studded lineup including Luis Suarez, Sergio Busquets, and Jordi Alba, Inter Miami struggled to create meaningful attacks. Their defensive strategy, focused on packing players behind the ball, proved insufficient against PSG's relentless pressure.

Before halftime, Neves struck again, tapping in a selfless pass from Fabian Ruiz. An own goal by Thomas Aviles, compounded by a powerful strike from Achraf Hakimi, extended PSG's lead to 4-0.

Messi's Isolation

Lionel Messi found himself isolated and struggling to influence the game. Lacking service and support, he was unable to replicate his usual impact. Suarez appeared fatigued, Busquets lacked pace, and Alba's runs were limited.

Second-Half Stalemate

In the second half, PSG eased off, allowing Inter Miami to avoid further damage. However, even with rare moments of brilliance from Messi, including a free-kick attempt that hit the wall, Inter Miami couldn't mount a comeback.

Reality Check for Inter Miami

The defeat serves as a reality check for Inter Miami, highlighting the considerable gap they need to close to compete with Europe's elite clubs. For Messi, the match underscores that some chapters in football history are best left untouched.