The 2025 FIFA Club World Cup got off to an electric start with a dramatic 0-0 draw between MLS side Inter Miami and Egyptian giants Al Ahly at a packed Hard Rock Stadium. While the scoreboard showed no goals, the intensity, atmosphere, and sheer quality on display made it a match to remember, dominated by brilliant performances from both goalkeepers and a near-last-minute stunner from Lionel Messi.
A Star-Studded Kickoff at Hard Rock Stadium
With Super Bowl-level production and 69,027 fans in attendance, the opening match of the newly reformatted Club World Cup had all the ingredients of a global spectacle. Football legends and dignitaries, including FIFA President Gianni Infantino, David Beckham, Roberto Baggio, Ronaldo Nazário, Arsène Wenger, and Alberto Zaccheroni, were spotted in the stands.
Inter Miami fielded its star-studded trio of former Barcelona legends: Lionel Messi, Luis Suárez, and Sergio Busquets, but it was the goalkeepers who stole the show.
Goalkeeping Masterclass: Ustari and El Shenawy Take the Spotlight
Between them, Inter Miami’s Oscar Ustari and Al Ahly’s Mohamed El Shenawy made 12 crucial saves in a game brimming with goalmouth action. The 38-year-old Ustari produced eight saves alone, including a heroic penalty stop late in the first half to deny Trezeguet, keeping his side alive in a half where Al Ahly looked the more threatening side.
El Shenawy matched him with his highlight reel, particularly in stoppage time, making three rapid-fire saves to deny Leo Campana, Messi, and Federico Redondo in quick succession.
Messi Threatens Late, But Lady Luck Says No
Messi, who played the full 90 minutes, was involved in nearly every dangerous moment for Inter Miami. He had six total shots, including a trademark curling free kick that brushed the side netting and a thunderous strike in the 45th minute that rattled the post. He also delivered two dangerous corner kicks that nearly led to goals just before halftime.
Midway through the first half, Messi suffered a brief injury scare after a heavy challenge but was able to continue after treatment. His passing was sharp as ever, completing 84% of his attempts, and he led his team’s transitions with smart through balls and positional awareness.
Speaking after the game, Inter Miami head coach Javier Mascherano admitted the first 45 minutes were tough: “We were lucky to survive the first half. They played better than us and created more chances. But in the second half, I think we were the stronger side; we had possession, shots, and control. I’m proud of the effort and what we showed tonight.”
While the match ended goalless, it was anything but dull. Two elite goalkeepers delivered masterclasses, Messi remained the heartbeat of Inter Miami’s offence, and the game set the tone for an exciting tournament ahead. If this opening clash is any indication, football fans are in for a thrilling Club World Cup journey.
