Related videos:
With Lionel Messi as their banner, Inter Miami CF experienced a historic milestone on Saturday night in its short but intense history by making its debut in the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 with a 0-0 draw against Egypt's Al Ahly FC in the tournament's opening match.
In just six years of existence, the American team has already won two titles, set records in MLS, and is now competing in one of the most prestigious club stages.
A close and tense duel
The first half was tight, with few clear opportunities and a lot of tension. The Inter Miami defense was solid, and the goalkeeper played a key role in keeping the score at zero. Just before halftime, a dangerous play led by Messi nearly resulted in a goal, but the Egyptian defense cleared a ball sent to Allende off the line.
The Argentine goalkeeper Óscar Ustari was the standout player of the night. Not only did he keep his goal intact, but he also saved a crucial penalty in the 43rd minute taken by Trezeguet, securing a valuable point at the start of the tournament. He also shone with several saves throughout the match, including a spectacular intervention on a header inside the box in the first half.
In the second half, Javier Mascherano's team displayed a more fluid and ambitious version of themselves. Fafa Picault, who came on in the second half, nearly scored with a powerful header in the 85th minute, but the opposing goalkeeper responded with cat-like reflexes.
Then, Messi came close to breaking the deadlock with a long-distance shot in added time that rattled the crossbar, and a final header attempt by Falcón was saved by the goalkeeper.
Post-match statements
“In the first half, we were nervous and anxious, which is understandable given the context and the atmosphere. In the second half, we improved significantly, we were more patient, played in the opponent's half, created many chances, and we leave with the feeling that we could have won it,” commented coach Javier Mascherano after the match, according to the official club page.
Inter Miami will continue its participation in the group stage this Thursday, June 19, when it faces FC Porto at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta. Although it seems challenging, the team will aim to secure all three points and move closer to qualification in its first World Cup adventure.
Frequently Asked Questions about Inter Miami's Debut in the Club World Cup 2025
How was Inter Miami's debut in the 2025 Club World Cup?
Inter Miami made its debut with a 0-0 draw against Al Ahly FC from Egypt in the opening match of the 2025 Club World Cup, with Lionel Messi standing out as the key player for the American team.
What was Lionel Messi's role in the match against Al Ahly?
Lionel Messi was the standard-bearer for Inter Miami and came close to scoring several times, including a shot that rattled the crossbar in stoppage time, showcasing his influence and quality on the field.
Who was key in keeping the draw for Inter Miami in their debut?
The goalkeeper Óscar Ustari was crucial in maintaining the draw for Inter Miami, making several key saves, including stopping a penalty taken by Trezeguet in the 43rd minute.
What is Inter Miami's next challenge in the Club World Cup?
Inter Miami will face FC Porto in their next group stage match on June 19 at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, aiming to earn points to advance in the tournament.
What is the significance of Inter Miami's participation in the Club World Cup for MLS?
Inter Miami's participation in the Club World Cup marks an important milestone for the MLS, as it allows the league to compete on a high-level international stage and contributes to the growth of soccer in the United States.
Filed under: