Entering the June 24 match, Inter Miami and Palmeiras were tied with four points each. The Brazilian team held the top spot due to a superior goal difference (+2 compared to Inter Miami's +1). While a defensive approach might have secured their lead, Palmeiras opted for a more aggressive strategy. This left them vulnerable to Inter Miami's counter-attacks.

In the 16th minute, following a clearance from the penalty box, Luis Suarez chested the ball down to Tadeo Allende who then sprinted forward. After outpacing the defenders, the Argentinian player beat goalkeeper Weverton to give the home side the lead.

Inter Miami maintained control after the goal. Palmeiras, despite having more attempts, struggled to find the target. In the 32nd minute, Facundo Torres missed a golden opportunity for the Brazilian side, sending his shot narrowly wide of the post.

The second half saw both teams battling for control. If Allende had capitalized on his one-on-one with the goalkeeper in the 52nd minute, Inter Miami could have doubled their advantage. Six minutes later, Lionel Messi's long-range effort sailed over the crossbar.

Messi expresses his disappointment after Inter Miami's 2-2 draw with Palmeiras in the final group stage match. The result places them second in Group A of the FIFA Club World Cup at Miami Gardens, Florida, USA on 23/6. *Photo: AP*

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Ngoc Tuan