The expanded FIFA Club World Cup got underway in dramatic fashion on U.S. soil, as Inter Miami and Al Ahly played out a high-octane goalless draw in the tournament’s opening fixture.
With global eyes fixed on Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami debut on the world stage, veteran Argentine goalkeeper Oscar Ustari stole the show.
The 37-year-old produced a stunning performance to deny Egyptian giants Al Ahly, including a first-half penalty save that preserved Miami’s clean sheet.
The match, held in front of 60,927 spectators at a sparsely populated 65,000-capacity venue, marked the beginning of FIFA’s ambitious new era, featuring 32 clubs from across the globe, hosted for the first time in the United States.
Inter Miami Vs Al Ahly official attendance at the FIFA Club World Cup opener. Photo Credit: X
Al Ahly, the most decorated club in African football with 45 domestic titles and 12 continental trophies, dominated the early stages and should have taken a lead inside the opening 10 minutes.
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Wessam Abou Ali and Emam Ashour were both denied by the inspired Ustari, who stood tall under pressure.
The best first-half moment came just before the break when former Aston Villa winger Mahmoud Trezeguet was brought down in the box. Ustari guessed right and kept out the resulting spot-kick, sending a roar through the Inter Miami camp.
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Despite being second-best for much of the game, Miami had moments of brilliance, largely through Lionel Messi.
Lionel Messi against Mahmoud Trezeguet and his Al Ahly teammates. Photo Credit: X
The Argentine captain came close to breaking the deadlock with a curling free-kick and nearly produced a spectacular winner late on, only for Al Ahly goalkeeper Mohamed El Shenawy to tip his long-range effort onto the crossbar.
“We know when Leo gets the ball in the right areas, good things happen. The level will rise in the next game, but it’s 11 against 11—anything can happen,” said Miami manager Javier Mascherano.
Al Ahly may rue missed chances as they now face Brazilian side Palmeiras next, while Inter Miami will face European opposition in FC Porto.
