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| Messi Nearly Scores as Inter Miami and Al Ahly Settle for 0-0 Draw in FIFA Club World Cup 2025 Opener. |
The opening match of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup didn’t bring goals, but it sure delivered drama. Inter Miami CF and Egyptian powerhouse Al Ahly played to a thrilling 0-0 draw at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami, with big moments from Lionel Messi and a missed penalty by Trézéguet lighting up the night.
Despite initial concerns about attendance, over 60,000 fans packed the stadium—home of the NFL’s Miami Dolphins. Surprisingly, the majority seemed to be backing Al Ahly, creating a loud, energetic atmosphere.
While neither team found the back of the net, the game offered plenty of excitement. Both sides created real chances, and the intensity stayed high from start to finish. With one point each, both clubs now look ahead to their upcoming Group A clashes against FC Porto and Palmeiras.
A Draw That Keeps Hopes Alive
Let’s be real—Inter Miami entered this tournament as underdogs. Yes, they’ve got global superstars like Lionel Messi, Luis Suárez, and Sergio Busquets, but beyond that, their roster doesn’t have the same depth as some of the world’s biggest clubs. Still, they put in a solid shift against Al Ahly, the 45-time Egyptian league champions.
Miami created three major chances and fired five shots on target. Messi, as expected, was in the thick of it—testing Egyptian goalkeeper Mohamed El Shenawy a few times, especially from set pieces in the second half.
Unfortunately, Suárez didn’t have his best night. The Uruguayan struggled to make an impact, something that’s been happening more often this season despite a strong start with 20 goals in his first year at the club.
One of the biggest chances came late in the game from MLS veteran Fafa Picault, who nearly headed in a winner off a beautiful Messi cross.
Defensively, Miami was well-organized. Coach Javier Mascherano made a smart call by subbing out Tomás Aviles after he picked up a yellow card and looked like he was being closely watched by the referee.
In the end, both teams probably felt they could’ve won it. Miami had late chances, Al Ahly missed a penalty—it’s a draw that leaves both sides with mixed emotions.
Mascherano said after the game:
“I’m happy with the performance. We were much better in the second half. In the first, we gave the ball away too much and they were dangerous on the counter. But after the break, we controlled the match and had the chances to win.”
Ustari Steps Up When It Counts
Inter Miami’s defensive issues in MLS are no secret—but against Al Ahly, goalkeeper Oscar Ustari came up huge. The 38-year-old Argentine made eight saves, including a crucial penalty stop just before halftime.
This was easily his best performance in a Herons jersey. While he’s had some rough outings this season—often caught out of position or miscommunicating with defenders—Ustari looked sharp and composed on this big stage.
The only concern? Can he maintain this form. With tougher matches ahead against FC Porto and Palmeiras, Miami may have burned Ustari’s best night on a game that ended 0-0.
Still, it’s a strong foundation for Miami’s backline moving forward—something they haven’t had consistently in their domestic league.
Ian Fray Stands Out at Right Back
One bright spot for Inter Miami this season has been the emergence of Ian Fray. The 22-year-old right back was one of the most consistent performers against Al Ahly, especially in the first half.
Fray showed real attacking intent, combining well with Telasco Segovia on the flank. He completed two progressive dribbles and registered five successful tackles—an all-around solid shift.
With Jordi Alba sidelined, Fray had more freedom to get forward while left back Noah Allen stayed back to cover. Fray made the most of that opportunity and played with a lot of confidence, showing he’s not afraid to take risks and push forward.
If he can keep this up, he could become a regular starter not just in MLS, but also as Miami looks to make a deep run in this Club World Cup.
A Promising Start, But More Needed
So, Inter Miami didn’t get the win—but they showed they belong. Messi was electric, Ustari was clutch, and players like Ian Fray stepped up when it mattered. It’s not the dream start, but it’s far from a disaster.
Against a seasoned club like Al Ahly, coming away with a point is a decent result. But if Miami wants to go far in this tournament, they’ll need to be more clinical in front of goal—and they’ll have to take their chances.
Next up: tougher tests against FC Porto and Palmeiras. If Miami can build on this performance and find the back of the net, there’s still plenty of reason for fans to be optimistic.
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