⚽ Messi Denied Late Winner as Inter Miami and Al Ahly Share Points in Club World Cup Opener – 2025
The opening match of the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 delivered intensity, drama, and elite goalkeeping — but no goals — as Inter Miami, led by Lionel Messi, were held to a 0–0 draw by Egypt’s Al Ahly at a packed Hard Rock Stadium in Florida.
⚽ Late Drama at Hard Rock Stadium
The crowd erupted in anticipation when Messi nearly stole victory for Miami in stoppage time. His trademark left-footed curler from 20 yards seemed destined for the top corner, only for Al Ahly goalkeeper Mohamed El Shenawy to produce a stunning fingertip save, pushing the ball onto the crossbar and keeping the game level.
Earlier in the second half, Messi orchestrated several opportunities, including a header by Fafà Picault that was acrobatically tipped over.
❌ Penalty Miss Keeps Al Ahly Out
The first half saw Al Ahly dominate possession, with a golden opportunity arriving in the 36th minute. The Egyptian side was awarded a penalty after a handball in the box, but Trezeguet’s low effort was saved brilliantly by Inter Miami’s keeper Oscar Ustari, who guessed right and dived low to his left.
Ustari continued to impress throughout the match, emerging as Miami’s defensive hero and keeping the Egyptian side at bay.
📊 Match Snapshot
| Event | Details |
|---|---|
| 🔁 Final Score | Inter Miami 0–0 Al Ahly |
| 🧤 Key Saves | Ustari (Penalty), El Shenawy (Messi’s late shot) |
| 👥 Attendance | 60,000+ spectators |
| 🗓️ Next Matches | Inter Miami vs FC Porto (June 19), Al Ahly vs Palmeiras (June 20) |
🌍 What’s Next in Group A
With one point apiece, both sides will look to secure victories in their second group games:
- Inter Miami travels to Atlanta to face FC Porto on June 19.
- Al Ahly heads to New York for a crucial match against Palmeiras on June 20.
Group A remains wide open as the race to the knockout stage heats up.
📍 Final Word
Though goalless, the clash between Inter Miami and Al Ahly set the tone for an exciting tournament. Messi’s magic was nearly enough, but goalkeeping heroics on both ends ensured a point each. With world-class names and electric atmospheres, the Club World Cup 2025 is off to a flying start.
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