Thirteen years of European dominance in intercontinental club football came to a dramatic end on Thursday, as Major League Soccer’s Inter Miami and Brazil’s Botafogo claimed landmark victories at the newly revamped Club World Cup.
Inter Miami edged past Porto 2-1 thanks to a spectacular Lionel Messi free-kick, while Botafogo stunned Champions League holders Paris Saint-Germain with a disciplined 1-0 win — a result that sent shockwaves through the global football community.
These victories mark the first time since 2012, when Corinthians defeated Chelsea, that non-European clubs have triumphed over top UEFA teams in the competition — signaling a potential power shift in international club football.
Botafogo’s Statement Performance
Botafogo’s win over PSG stood out as a tactical and logistical triumph. Arriving weeks ahead of the tournament, the Brazilian champions set up a rigorous training camp in Los Angeles, giving them a crucial edge in preparation and recovery — in stark contrast to their rushed appearance at the Intercontinental Cup in Qatar last December.
Against a possession-dominant PSG side, Botafogo executed a near-perfect game plan. Their tight, compact defensive structure left the French champions frustrated and ineffective in the final third. The breakthrough came in the first half through a rapid counterattack led by forward Igor Jesus — a rare but clinical moment of attacking brilliance.
“The football graveyard is full of so-called favourites,” quipped Botafogo manager Renato Paiva after the match, underlining his side’s belief and focus.
Messi Magic Lifts Inter Miami
Earlier in the day, Inter Miami showcased grit and star power against a faltering Porto. After conceding early, the MLS side grew into the game before Messi — the architect of countless magical moments — curled a sublime free-kick into the top corner to complete the comeback.
Though Porto are enduring one of their weakest campaigns in recent memory, the result marked a major statement by Inter Miami and the league they represent — showing that MLS sides are no longer just spectators on the global stage.
A Changing Landscape?
Thursday’s results may reflect more than just one-off victories. Improved scheduling, better logistics, and increasing tactical maturity are helping non-European clubs close the gap at the Club World Cup.
South American powerhouses Flamengo and Boca Juniors will have a chance to continue this momentum on Friday, when they face Chelsea and Bayern Munich, respectively. Wins for either side would further erode Europe’s dominance and signal to clubs worldwide that the traditional hierarchy may be shifting.
As the tournament unfolds, one thing is clear: the age of unquestioned European supremacy in club football might finally be over.
