Club World Cup 2025: Messi & Inter Miami Frustrated by Al Ahly in Goalless Opener
Lionel Messi and Inter Miami were left disappointed after a goalless draw with Egypt’s Al Ahly in the highly anticipated opening match of the FIFA Club World Cup 2025, held at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami.
In front of a raucous crowd of over 60,000 fans, Inter Miami’s star-studded lineup was tested early and often by the 12-time African champions, Al Ahly, who nearly snatched victory through a first-half penalty that was brilliantly saved by veteran goalkeeper Oscar Ustari.
🔹 First Half: Al Ahly Dominate but Miss Penalty Opportunity
Al Ahly, the dominant force in African football, looked the more threatening side from kickoff. Their pressing and speed unsettled Miami’s midfield, leading to a golden opportunity when Egyptian winger Trézéguet stepped up to take a penalty.
However, Oscar Ustari’s diving save preserved the deadlock, denying the Egyptian side a crucial advantage.
🔹 Second Half: Messi Almost Wins It Late
With the game hanging in the balance, Lionel Messi came alive in the second half. A beautifully struck free-kick in the 75th minute narrowly missed the post, while another curling effort deep into stoppage time struck the crossbar, drawing gasps from the Miami faithful.
Despite the Argentine legend’s heroics, the match ended 0-0.
🔹 What This Means for Group A
Both Inter Miami and Al Ahly now sit level on points in Group A, with much tougher opponents ahead — Palmeiras (Brazil) and FC Porto (Portugal). With only the top two teams advancing to the Round of 16, every point — and goal — will matter from here on out.
🧠 Key Match Stats:
- Score: Inter Miami 0-0 Al Ahly
- Possession: Miami 52% – Al Ahly 48%
- Shots on Target: Miami 4 – Al Ahly 6
- Saves: Ustari (Miami) – 5 crucial saves
- Attendance: 60,000+ at Hard Rock Stadium
📌 What’s Next for Messi and Miami?
Inter Miami must now regroup quickly before facing Palmeiras, a team with serious title ambitions. Anything less than a win could put their Club World Cup hopes in serious jeopardy.
Al Ahly, meanwhile, face FC Porto in a must-win clash as they continue their quest to make history for African football.
📝 Conclusion: A Battle Still to Be Fought
Despite the high expectations surrounding Messi and Inter Miami’s Club World Cup debut, a resilient Al Ahly proved why they’re a continental powerhouse. With the group stage heating up, both sides know they can’t afford any more missed chances.
💡 FAQs
Q1. Who was the Man of the Match?
Oscar Ustari, for his crucial penalty save and command of the box.
Q2. When is Inter Miami’s next match?
They face Palmeiras on [insert next match date here].
Q3. Has Messi ever won the Club World Cup before?
Yes, multiple times with FC Barcelona.
Q4. Can both Miami and Al Ahly still qualify?
Yes, but they’ll likely need at least one win each to advance.
