João Neves scored a rare brace as Paris Saint-Germain cruised to a commanding 5-0 victory over Inter Miami, sealing their place in the quarter-finals of the FIFA Club World Cup. The European champions were ruthless in Atlanta, brushing aside the MLS outfit to set up a blockbuster tie with Bayern Munich on Saturday.
PSG were expected to dominate against a side currently sixth in Major League Soccer’s Eastern Conference—and Luis Enrique’s side wasted no time asserting their authority.
The opener came in just the sixth minute, with 20-year-old Neves stooping low to head home from close range after a well-delivered free-kick from Vitinha. The Portugal international doubled the lead before half-time, coolly slotting in to finish a flowing move involving Bradley Barcola and Fabian Ruiz. Ruiz thought he had scored himself earlier, but the goal was ruled out for offside.
It soon became a rout. In the 42nd minute, a dangerous cross from teenager Désiré Doué was turned into his own net by Inter Miami defender Tomás Avilés. In added time before the break, Achraf Hakimi pounced after his initial shot came off the bar, slamming home a fourth to cap a devastating half.
The second half saw PSG ease off the accelerator. With the game effectively over, Enrique withdrew key players Ruiz and Marquinhos at half-time to preserve them for the Bayern clash. Ousmane Dembélé made his return from injury, featuring in the second period as PSG calmly controlled proceedings.
Inter Miami’s star man Lionel Messi, facing his former club, showed glimpses of quality in what may have been his final appearance on a global stage. The 38-year-old Argentine had four efforts at goal, two of which tested Gianluigi Donnarumma, but could not inspire his side against the relentless Parisians.
Neves’ double was a particular highlight. Despite not being known for his goalscoring prowess—having netted just nine times prior in his career—the young midfielder looked clinical in front of goal. If he continues adding goals to his already-impressive all-round game, he could soon become one of the sport’s true elite.
The result also adds to Neves’ incredible trophy-laden summer. The midfielder has already won Ligue 1, the Coupe de France, the Champions League, and the UEFA Nations League with Portugal. A Club World Cup title could complete a staggering collection for the 20-year-old.
As for PSG, their Champions League demolition of Inter Milan was a statement of European dominance. Now, they aim to underline their claim as the world’s best by adding the Club World Cup to their glittering campaign. First, they must get past Bayern Munich in Atlanta on Saturday, 5 July—a tie worthy of any final.