CWC: Porto striker who chose Spain over Nigeria scores against Messi's Inter Miami, Zaidu unused

Spanish striker Samu Aghehowa was on target but FC Porto suffered a 2-1 defeat to Inter Miami in their Group A clash at the FIFA Club World Cup on Thursday night.

Aghehowa, who chose to represent Spain over Nigeria, opened the scoring in the 8th minute from the penalty spot at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium, giving the Portuguese giants an early lead.

The 21-year-old forward remained a constant threat throughout the first half, but Porto failed to capitalize further before the break.

Inter Miami mounted a second-half comeback, with Telasco Segovia levelling the score before Lionel Messi netted the winner to the delight of the enthusiastic Miami crowd.

Born in Melilla, Spain to a Nigerian mother, Aghehowa has continued to impress since making the switch from Atletico Madrid to FC Porto in the summer of 2024.

The young striker has now scored 26 goals and provided three assists in 44 appearances across all competitions for the Portuguese outfit.

Meanwhile, Super Eagles defender Zaidu Sanusi remained an unused substitute for the encounter, further intensifying speculation about his future at the club.

The 28-year-old has struggled for regular game time since recovering from a long-term injury.

With the loss, FC Porto now sit third in Group C with just one point, trailing both Palmeiras and Inter Miami, who are tied on four points.

The result leaves the Portuguese side at risk of an early exit from the competition.

Adeyemi Adewale

Photo Credit: fifa.com

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