'We can compete against any team in the world' - Inter Miami head coach Javier Mascherano celebrates as MLS club becomes first to beat a European side in official competition

Following Inter Miami’s dramatic 2-1 comeback win over Porto - their first-ever victory at the FIFA Club World Cup - head coach Javier Mascherano opened his post-match press conference with an emotional message.

“First of all, I want to congratulate the players for the game they played,” Mascherano said. “Beyond the result, it was a source of pride to watch them play with courage, both with and without the ball. Today we’ve shown that we can compete against any team in the world.”

The win is not only historically significant for Miami, but for MLS as well. This is the first MLS club victory over a European side in an official competition.

The Herons fell behind early, conceding a penalty goal in the eighth minute to Spain’s Samu Aghehowa. But despite the early setback, Mascherano’s squad refused to back down.

“If we have a plan and stick together - and if we dare to play - we can compete,” he said. “The way the team overcame the adversity of the match, staying true to our identity, was admirable. Everyone remained committed to what we’re trying to do.”

Mascherano called it a “historic day” for the club.

“Everyone should enjoy this in their own way. Everyone contributes their part to help this club keep moving forward. It means we’re still alive. We head into our third match with a real shot at qualifying," he said.

The Argentine coach also praised his legendary compatriot Lionel Messi, who sealed the comeback with a stunning free-kick goal in the 54th minute to make it 2-1.

“He’s the player who shows us how to compete. His hunger and desire to keep performing - at any level - guides us and shows us the path we need to follow.”

Messi also joined in the celebrations and praised his team for the effort.

"A great joy, a huge effort from the whole team. We worked really well - not only did we defend, but in the first half and up until the 1-1 we managed the ball very well," he said. "I’m really happy because we were left with a bitter taste after the first match. We felt like we could’ve won it in the end - just as easily as we could’ve lost it. But today’s win is really important for us, and now it’s time to enjoy it."

The Herons will face Palmeiras next Monday at Miami’s Hard Rock Stadium. The winner will advance as the top team in the group, although a draw would send both clubs through. In that case, the Brazilian side would move on as group leader. The loser, however, would risk elimination.