Argentinean star Lionel Messi’s late heroics fell short as Inter Miami drew 0-0 with Ahly in a thrilling Club World Cup opener at Florida’s Hard Rock Stadium on Sunday, with over 60,000 fans witnessed the clash, signaling a vibrant start to FIFA’s expanded 32-team spectacle.
The former Barcelona star nearly secured a dramatic stoppage-time winner, but his curling shot from 20 yards forced Ahly’s goalkeeper Mohamed El-Shennawy to produce a superb save, expertly tipping the shot onto the crossbar.
Chances Flow at Both Ends
As Miami intensified their attack in the final minutes, Ahly’s supporters, numbering over 10,000, celebrated their team’s resilience. However, they lamented a missed opportunity when Egypt international Mahmoud ‘Trezeguet’ Hassan had his first-half penalty saved by Miami’s Argentine keeper, Oscar Ustari. In the dying seconds, El-Shennawy made another crucial save, denying a header from Maxi Falcon as Miami pushed hard for a victory in this Group A clash.
For FIFA, the tournament’s organizers, the absence of goals was the only disappointment on a night filled with excitement. FIFA President Gianni Infantino had high hopes for the opening night, and the event largely met those expectations. Concerns about a low turnout quickly faded as the stadium filled to near capacity by kick-off time.
Ahly, the record 12-time African Champions League winners and 45-time Egyptian league champions, arrived early at the stadium, creating an electric atmosphere with their singing and chanting. Last year, the stadium witnessed chaotic scenes during the Copa America final between Argentina and Colombia, where fans broke in after long delays. However, this time, an efficient ticket and security check system prevented any issues, ensuring a smooth entry for fans.
Miami Grow Into Contest
Although the match ended without goals, it was far from dull. Ahly dominated the first half, while Miami significantly improved after the break.
Ahly’s offense opened Miami’s defense early in the match, with Emam Ashour being denied by Ustari after a brilliant setup from Trezeguet. In the 31st minute, Palestine international striker Wessam Abou Ali had a goal ruled out for offside, followed by a fierce strike that Ustari tipped over the bar.
The penalty opportunity arose when Telasco Segovia fouled Zizo, but Trezeguet’s weak spot kick was parried, and he failed to react quickly enough to the rebound. After halftime, Miami showed greater strength, with Messi coming close in the 64th minute. His free-kick grazed the post before hitting the side-netting, tricking some fans into thinking he had scored.
In stoppage time, Messi nearly found the net again after a well-executed short corner, but El-Shennawy’s outstretched fingertip denied him once more. Looking ahead, Miami will face Porto in Atlanta on Thursday, while Ahly will take on Brazilian side Palmeiras later that same day.
