Inter Miami, Al Ahly Draw 0-0 Club World Cup Opener Miami, Florida

Lionel Messi's Inter Miami was held to a goalless draw by Egypt’s Al-Ahly in the opening match of the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami, with nearly 61,000 fans in attendance highlighting Messi's strong draw. Messi came close to scoring on multiple occasions, including a free kick that hit the post and a stoppage-time curling shot tipped onto the crossbar by Al-Ahly goalkeeper Mohamed Elshenawy. Inter Miami's goalkeeper Oscar Ustari also made crucial saves, including a penalty stop, to keep the match scoreless. The game featured intense moments and tactical adjustments, with both teams showing resilience and missed opportunities, while coaches from both sides commented on the match's competitive nature and the efforts to contain Messi. The high attendance dispelled concerns about the tournament's appeal in the United States, with fans from diverse backgrounds turning out in support of both teams despite external protests near President Donald Trump’s Mar-a-Lago estate. The first match set a positive tone for the revamped 32-team Club World Cup, though the absence of goals was noted as the only disappointment.