A Club World Cup Opener to Forget: Inter Miami and Al Ahly Share Points
The 2025 Club World Cup kicked off with a big letdown. Inter Miami and Al Ahly played out a dull 0-0 draw in a match that promised fireworks but fizzled out. Fans expected a goal fest, especially with Lionel Messi on the pitch, but goalkeepers stole the show. Oscar Ustari and Mohamed El Shenawy shut down every attack, leaving both teams with a point and plenty to prove. The opener fell flat, with neither side delivering the soccer spark fans craved.
The first half was rough for Javier Mascherano’s Inter Miami. Al Ahly’s speed overwhelmed them, slicing through gaps to create danger. The Egyptians even earned a penalty, but Ustari turned hero, stopping Trezeguet’s shot. Every Al Ahly move exposed Miami’s shaky, disjointed defense. Poor finishing and Ustari’s stellar saves kept Inter Miami alive until halftime, though they barely hung on against the relentless Egyptian press.
Things flipped after the break. Inter Miami came out fired up, with Messi grabbing control of the ball and the game’s tempo like his Barcelona time. The U.S. team pushed hard, creating several clear chances, but ran into El Shenawy’s brick wall. The Egyptian keeper shone, especially when he tipped a fierce Messi strike onto the post in the final minutes. Mascherano’s squad grew desperate, throwing everything forward, but couldn’t find the goal to snatch a win.
Despite stars like Sergio Busquets, Luis Suárez, and Jordi Alba, Inter Miami struggled to break down Al Ahly’s defense or showcase the flair fans had expected. They held the ball but lacked zip, creativity, and sharp final passes. Al Ahly impressed with their pace and tight tactics, though their attack fell short. Both teams had their moments, but neither could capitalize, leaving the game stuck in neutral.
Group A starts with a whimper, putting the spotlight on Palmeiras and FC Porto, the other teams in the group, who now have a chance to surge ahead. Inter Miami needs to bounce back fast to keep their tournament hopes alive. The draw shows balance but also highlights both teams’ flaws. In a hyped-up debut, the excitement fell short, and stars like Messi must step up next match to deliver.
