Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami were held to a 0-0 draw by Egyptian giants Al Ahly in the opening match of Group A at the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup in Florida. A crowd of 60,927 fans gathered at the Hard Rock Stadium to watch Messi in action, but the MLS side couldn’t secure a winning start.
Messi came close to scoring a stoppage-time winner when his curling effort from 20 yards was tipped onto the crossbar. Earlier in the match, Al Ahly dominated the first half with relentless pressure and attacking play.
They were even awarded a penalty — a golden chance to take the lead — but Inter Miami’s goalkeeper Oscar Ustari denied Trezeguet from the spot, keeping the game goalless.
“I’m happy with the team’s performance.” – Mascherano, Inter Miami Head Coach
Following the draw, Inter Miami head coach Javier Mascherano spoke to DAZN, offering a positive assessment of his team’s performance: “Football is like that. In the first half, maybe they had some chances to score, but at the end, in the 90 minutes, we were much better than them, we controlled the game, we had the possession, we always tried to play in the opposition side of the pitch, and there we created the chances,” he said.
Mascherano acknowledged the disappointment of not securing three points but praised his side’s mentality and effort: “Obviously, we wanted to win. We know how important it is to start with three points. But I’m happy with the team’s performance. We showed great character. That’s important, especially since a lot of people still don’t really know how we play. It was difficult,” he admitted. “You see people from all around the world. But when you have a player like Messi, usually the fans end up cheering for your team.”
Inter Miami will next face FC Porto on 19 June, followed by a crucial clash against Brazil’s Palmeiras on 23 June.
For More Exciting News: Follow RevSportz