Messi’s Inter Miami Held to a Stalemate by Al Ahly in Club World Cup Opener
What a night it was at the Hard Rock Stadium as Inter Miami kicked off their Club World Cup 2025 journey with a tense 0-0 draw against Egyptian giants Al Ahly. You could feel the buzz in the stadium, and it wasn’t just the humidity—this was a game where the heat came from both the weather and the stakes. All eyes were on Lionel Messi and Luis Suárez, yet it was the goalkeepers who stole the spotlight.
From the opening whistle, it was clear this wasn’t going to be a walk in the park for the MLS side. Al Ahly came prepared, sharp, and organized. They dominated the first half, creating multiple clear chances, and if not for Inter’s goalkeeper Óscar Ustari, things could’ve gone south quickly. His penalty save from Trezeguet was simply world-class, and he followed it up with a string of stunning stops. Honestly, the man was everywhere. You have to give him credit—he was the reason Miami was still breathing at halftime.
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As for Messi, he had a few moments of magic. A cheeky free kick that grazed the outside of the net, a clever setup for a teammate, and one rocket that nearly got past El Shenawy, who somehow managed to deflect it off the crossbar with his head. The Egyptian keeper was just as heroic, earning his own share of applause with crucial saves in the second half, especially when he denied Fafa Picault’s header from close range.
Luis Suárez, on the other hand, struggled to make his presence felt. He pressed, he fought, but it just wasn’t his night in front of goal. The same goes for Inter’s midfield, which had moments of disorganization and were often second-best to Al Ahly’s pressing game. Busquets got a yellow for his troubles, and Avilés was lucky to avoid a second after a reckless first-half challenge.
Despite their rough first 45 minutes, Inter came out stronger after the break. You could see more rhythm, more intent. Messi drew the crowd in with every touch, and Cremaschi added a fresh spark, but ultimately, Miami couldn't find the finishing touch. Even with a last-gasp flurry of attacks—including a Messi effort tipped off the bar in added time—they had to settle for the draw.
In the end, this wasn’t the dream start Inter Miami would’ve hoped for, but it’s not a disaster either. A point against a very disciplined and experienced Al Ahly side is still a result that keeps them in the tournament. For Al Ahly, this match was a statement—they came to compete, not just participate.
If tonight’s clash is any indication of what’s to come in the Club World Cup, we’re in for a rollercoaster. And for Messi and Miami? The road ahead won’t be easy, but it’s still wide open.
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