Messi starts FIFA Club World Cup with goalless draw

The newly expanded 32-team FIFA Club World Cup began on Sunday (June 15) at the Hard Rock Stadium in Florida, but the highly anticipated opener failed to deliver the expected excitement, ending in a goalless draw between Inter Miami and Egyptian giants Al Ahly.

With global football stars and dignitaries such as FIFA President Gianni Infantino, Brazilian legend Ronaldo, and English icon David Beckham in attendance, hopes were high for a thrilling contest. However, the match lacked intensity and clinical finishing, leaving the 60,000-strong crowd wanting more.

Lionel Messi, leading Inter Miami, was unable to make a decisive impact despite several attempts, including a powerful 20-yard strike late in the game that rattled the crossbar. His teammate and fellow forward Luis Suárez also tested Al Ahly’s defense, but the African champions stood firm.

Al Ahly, winners of the CAF Champions League, looked the more threatening side, especially in the first half. They created multiple scoring chances and were awarded a penalty, but failed to convert. Inter Miami’s Argentine goalkeeper Oscar Ustari was instrumental in keeping the match level, producing a series of impressive saves—including the penalty stop—to deny the Egyptian club.

On the other end, Al Ahly's goalkeeper Mostafa Shobeir (Senauyo) was equally tested, particularly in the second half as Miami grew into the game.

Inter Miami head coach Javier Mascherano expressed mixed feelings after the match. “We didn’t start well. We lacked possession and control in the first half,” he admitted. “But Messi was much better in the second half, and overall I’m satisfied with the performance.”

Inter Miami’s next Group Stage fixture is scheduled for Thursday (June 19), where they will face Portuguese powerhouse FC Porto.