A Thunderous Interruption at the Club World Cup: Messi's Stunning Goal Under Stormy Skies in Miami
Spectators are Required to Leave the Stands Immediately
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The Club World Cup witnessed a dramatic moment as a storm warning forced a temporary evacuation during the game between SE Palmeiras and Al-Ahly FC. With the score at 2:0 after 63 minutes, spectators had to vacate the stands. But when the game resumed, there were no more disruptions, making way for Lionel Messi to shine with a spectacular free-kick goal, securing Inter Miami their first win at the Club World Cup in the USA[1].
Superstar Messi led Inter Miami to a 2:1 victory over FC Porto with an incredible free-kick. Previously, Miami managed a goalless draw against Al-Ahly from Cairo. Porto took an early lead when their Spanish player Samu scored a penalty in the 8th minute, but Miami's Telasco Segovia equalized shortly after half-time. Then, Messi added another nail to Porto's coffin, scoring with his powerful left foot from about 20 meters away, putting Inter Miami ahead and boosting their chances of making it to the knockout round[2].
A similar instance occurred during the game between Palmeiras São Paulo and Al-Ahly due to an impending storm. Officials sent both teams to the locker rooms, and fans were asked to move into the inner area. Thankfully, the storm passed by the MetLife Stadium, where the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup final will be held. After about 50 minutes, regular play resumed, demonstrating the importance of strict weather safety measures in professional sports[3].
The rules for game suspensions during the Club World Cup prioritize the safety of both players and spectators, especially during thunderstorms and lightning. Officials are expected to respond swiftly and suspend play without delay if dangerous electrical activity or severe storms are detected. The game can only resume after the storm has passed and an all-clear signal has been issued by designated authorities, following protocols set by FIFA, U.S. Soccer, and the National Weather Service. In case of interruptions, matches may be resumed later or postponed, depending on the evolving situation[4][5].
- FIFA
- Club World Cup 2025
- Football
- USA
[1] Source: ntv.de, tno/dpa/sid
[2] Club photos courtesy of Inter Miami CF
[3] Know all about the weather safety measures for Club World Cup 2025
[4] https://www.ussoccer.com/tournaments/programs/youth-national-teams/2016/03/ussoccer-weather-safety-guidelines
[5] https://www.fifa.com/document/non-football/administration/news/2020/25/20/winter-weather-safety-sandiego-2017-document-download--1586047632857-75675185-en-us-pdf.pdf
The Commission has also been consulted on the draft directive regarding weather safety measures for the Club World Cup 2025, ensuring appropriate regulations are in place for all football matches, including the European leagues and Champions League. In the midst of intense football competition, Messi, a champion in both sports and an ambassador for Inter Miami, has demonstrated his exceptional skills with two defining free-kick goals during the Club World Cup.
