Messi Denied, Miami Held, Al Ahly Impress
TDT | Manama
Star-studded Club World Cup opener ends in stalemate amid fervent Miami crowd
Lionel Messi came within inches of a dream start to Inter Miami's Club World Cup campaign, but the Argentine icon and his side were ultimately held to a goalless draw by Egyptian giants Al Ahly in front of nearly 61,000 fans at Hard Rock Stadium.
Despite dominating much of the second half and seeing Messi clip the crossbar with virtually the final kick of the game, Inter Miami couldn't find a breakthrough in the tournament's Group A curtain-raiser. Al Ahly, buoyed by a massive contingent of supporters, created early chances and missed a first-half penalty in a game that ebbed and flowed but ultimately lacked finishing precision.
Messi Magic Falls Just Short
On a humid Florida evening, the crowd — 60,927 strong — came primarily to see Messi. The World Cup winner didn't disappoint in terms of involvement, orchestrating play and producing two moments of real threat. First, a trademark free-kick bent around the wall clipped the outside of the post. Later, a perfectly measured cross nearly brought a breakthrough, only for Fafa Picault's header to be clawed away by Mohamed El Shenawy.
But the biggest chance came at the death. With time almost up, Messi curled a fierce effort from just outside the box, forcing El Shenawy into a brilliant fingertip save that nudged the ball onto the crossbar.
Al Ahly Stand Tall
Al Ahly showed little fear of the occasion. Driven by passionate support — far outnumbering Miami's fans in both voice and presence — they started brighter. Their best chance came from the penalty spot after Zizo was brought down in the box, but Trezeguet's weak effort was saved comfortably by Oscar Ustari.
The African champions were disciplined defensively, frustrating Miami's midfield and closing down Messi with every touch, though they faded slightly in the second half as the MLS side gained control.
High Stakes, Big Stage
This edition of the Club World Cup marks a new era, with an expanded 32-team format and matches played across the United States one year ahead of the FIFA World Cup. Miami's near-capacity turnout offered an encouraging sign for tournament organisers, easing concerns about global engagement and local interest.
For Inter Miami, the draw keeps them alive in Group A, but increases the pressure heading into Thursday's clash with FC Porto in Atlanta. Al Ahly, meanwhile, face Brazilian side Palmeiras in New York.
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