Touched by God – Lionel Messi Shows That Class Is Permanent

It is very rare for a moment in football to feel both inevitable and awe-inspiring — but that is exactly what Lionel Messi delivered during Inter Miami's 2-1 comeback win over FC Porto at the FIFA Club World Cup.

The 37-year-old Argentine superstar reminded the world why he is still the master of moments, curling in a stunning free-kick from 20 yards that left Porto’s Claudio Ramos rooted to the spot. It was vintage Messi — calm, clinical, and impossibly precise.

“Touched by God, isn't he? Incredible. What a player,” said former Portugal defender Jose Fonte on Dazn, echoing the thoughts of millions watching.

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Messi’s strike was his 68th direct free-kick goal — a number only bettered by Juninho Pernambucano (77) and the legendary Pele (70).

His brilliance led Inter Miami to their first-ever win at a Club World Cup, keeping their hopes alive of reaching the last 16.

The moment came with Messi standing centrally, just on the edge of the D. Instead of opting for the easier route around the wall, he chose the more challenging path — over the wall and into the goalkeeper’s side. The result? A goal of supreme quality and confidence.

“This is what he does,” said former Newcastle keeper Shay Given. “It’s nearly like a penalty for him — he is so precise. He is a genius.”

The goal followed an equally impressive strike from teammate Telasco Segovia, completing a crucial comeback that means a draw against Brazilian side Palmeiras will be enough to send both teams into the knockout stage.

Just shy of two years after leaving PSG for Inter Miami, Messi continues to dominate.

With 50 goals in 61 games for the MLS side, he has already become their all-time leading scorer. His total club tally now stands at a staggering 754 goals.

“He's the greatest player in the world,” said Inter Miami teammate Fafa Picault, summing up the mood in the Miami camp.

Messi’s record at the Club World Cup is no less impressive. He is now scored six goals in seven appearances, tying with Gareth Bale and Karim Benzema — and just one shy of Cristiano Ronaldo’s record.

Against Porto, Messi also led in dribbles (2), ranked third for touches (70), and fifth for passes attempted (56). “Lionel Messi does both, he is affecting the game, he is controlling the game,” noted Don Hutchison.