CURSE BROKEN! Messi's Divine Power Saves Inter Miami, Extends Unbeatable Streak!

The legend continues to expand his legacy with a record that defies all logic and that few, if any, will be able to match. With Inter Miami advancing to the Round of 16 of this 2025 Club World Cup, Lionel Messi has once again achieved a feat that has become a constant throughout his career: never, neither at club level nor with national teams, has a team with Leo in its ranks been eliminated from a group stage.

The statistic is astonishing in its magnitude. Or perhaps, not so much when it concerns "The Flea" himself. In his extensive and brilliant football career, Leo has played a total of 35 group stages. These are distributed as follows: 17 with FC Barcelona, 2 with Paris Saint-Germain, 2 with Inter Miami, and an impressive total of 14 with the Argentine National Team. And in each and every one of them, without exception, Messi and Co. have advanced to the next round. An irrefutable testament to his impact, leadership, and the winning mentality he instills in every team he's a part of.

This record is not a coincidence; it's a reflection of a consistency and excellence that only Messi can offer.

• A Consistent Phenomenon: From his early days at Barcelona to his current stint at Inter Miami, including his time at PSG and his long career with the Argentine National Team, Messi has been synonymous with progressing beyond the first round of any tournament. This demonstrates his ability to guide his teams even in the initial stages of a competition, where the margin for error can be smaller.
• Adaptability to Different Contexts: The fact that this record holds true across so many clubs and with his national team, under different coaches, teammates, and playing styles, underscores the adaptability and transcendence of his talent. No matter the system or the league, Messi finds a way to be decisive.

Messi's Performance in the Club World Cup with Inter Miami

Messi's performance in this Club World Cup group stage with Inter Miami has been yet another proof of his vital influence.

• Debut Against Al-Ahly: In Inter Miami's first match against the Egyptians, Leo was, as usual, one of the best players on his team. He came close to sealing his performance with a spectacular long-range shot late in the game, which hit the crossbar after a crucial deflection by goalkeeper El Shenawy. His mere presence constantly created danger.
• Stunning Goal and Comeback Against Porto: Against a strong opponent like Porto, "the 10" once again proved to be the savior. Messi scored a brilliant free-kick goal that was fundamental in turning around a difficult match and securing vital points for qualification. His magic from set pieces remains a testament to his unparalleled skill.
• Masterclass Against Palmeiras: In the 2-2 draw against Palmeiras, Messi truly pulled the strings for his team. His control of the game, precise passes, and ability to dictate tempo were crucial in earning a valuable point against another formidable opponent. He demonstrated his vision and leadership, ensuring Inter Miami stayed competitive.

The Legacy Continues: More Than Just Goals

Messi's streak of never being eliminated in a group stage is more than just a statistical anomaly; it speaks to deeper qualities.

• Unwavering Determination: This record highlights Messi's relentless drive to win and his ability to consistently perform at the highest level, even when the pressure is immense. It's a testament to his mental fortitude and his commitment to team success.
• Invaluable Leadership: While not always the most vocal, Messi's leadership through example is undeniable. His performances inspire his teammates, and his mere presence elevates the confidence and collective performance of the entire squad.
• A Unique Career Milestone: In an era of increasing competitiveness and expanded tournaments, this achievement becomes even more extraordinary. It underscores Messi's unique place in football history, setting him apart as a player who consistently leads his teams out of the initial hurdles of any major competition.

As Inter Miami prepares for the knockout stages of the Club World Cup, Lionel Messi continues to break records and cement his status as arguably the greatest player of all time. His incredible group stage streak is a fascinating facet of his enduring brilliance, a reminder that with Leo on your side, exiting early simply isn't an option.