Argentinian Ustari Named MVP in Inter Miami Club World Cup Opener

In the opening match of the revamped Club World Cup in Miami, Inter Miami held Egypt's Al Ahly to a 0-0 draw, with goalkeeper Oscar Ustari stealing the spotlight as the match MVP. Ustari, 38, made eight crucial saves including a penalty stop against Trezeguet just before halftime and a vital goal-line intervention, helping preserve the clean sheet. Despite Lionel Messi's presence and attempts, Al Ahly's goalkeeper Mohamed El Shenawy also impressed with multiple saves, including one that tipped Messi’s late free kick onto the bar. Inter Miami coach Javier Mascherano acknowledged the defensive effort to limit Messi’s impact, while forward Luis Suarez highlighted the critical role goalkeepers played in earning points from the match. Ustari, who had briefly retired, was signed by Inter Miami in September 2024 and returned to a World Cup stage for the first time since winning the U-20 World Cup in 2005. Inter Miami will next face FC Porto and Palmeiras in Group A, with other football heavyweights competing in the tournament.