In a groundbreaking and controversial move, FIFA has announced a never-before-seen decision: a second leg between Paris Saint-Germain and Inter Miami will take place on **June 31, 2025** — just two days after PSG comfortably beat the MLS side 4-0 in the Club World Cup Round of 16.
**Why?**
FIFA claims the rematch is meant to “give Lionel Messi a chance to truly show his greatness.” FIFA President Gianni Infantino made the announcement at an emergency press conference, stating:
> “We can’t let a football icon like Messi exit the tournament like that. This is about fairness, legacy, and giving the GOAT the opportunity he deserves.”
**Rule Changes Just for Messi?**
Under the newly introduced rule, Inter Miami is now allowed to re-sign players previously eliminated from the Club World Cup — even if they weren’t on the original squad. This potentially means stars like Luka Modrić, Ángel Di María, and even Cristiano Ronaldo (if he agrees) could be added to Messi’s team.
Additionally, the rematch will be played at the **Maracanã Stadium** in Brazil — the same venue where Messi lifted the Copa América in 2021. FIFA also plans to use an advanced VAR system with ultra-slow motion and 360-degree replays — but only for decisions involving Messi.
**PSG Outraged**
PSG were quick to respond, condemning the decision. Coach **Luis Enrique** called it “a joke,” and club president **Nasser Al-Khelaifi** said:
> “We’re not here to take part in a farewell ceremony. If FIFA wants a tribute, they should organize a friendly — don’t turn the Club World Cup into a Messi show.”
FIFA stood firm, warning that any team refusing to participate could face disqualification.
**Public Reactions: Chaos Online**
The football world erupted online. While Messi supporters praised FIFA’s move, critics labeled it “favoritism” and “a disgrace to competitive integrity.” Hashtags like **#MessiGate** and **#FIFA31June** dominated social media, with memes mocking the decision — one post joked:
> “If Messi loses again, will they schedule a second leg of the second leg?”
**Conclusion: Has Football Gone Fully “Custom”?**
Whether real or symbolic, this decision hints at a growing reality: football’s biggest names now seem to wield enough power to influence the rules of the game itself. As one fan wrote: *“We might be witnessing the era of personalized football.”*