CWC: Double zero at the start! Messi and Co. survive as Egyptians waste penalty

Much ado about nothing! The expectations ahead of the beginning of the FIFA Club World Cup were high, but the opening clash fell seriously short, as Al Ahly Cairo and Inter Miami shared spoils in a goalless draw - 0-0.

Truth be told, over 60,000 people at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami witnessed an interesting match and watched good football, but goals definitely lacked. The rivals combined for 14 attempts on target, so it's safe to say that the two custodians played major roles last night.

FIFA Club World Cup at a glance

Al Ahly were way better in the first half and wasted several decent chances over Emam Ashour and Achraf Dari, but the most colossal one came two minutes before the break, when the Egypitan side was awarded a penalty. Trezeguet took responsibility, but Inter's 38-year-old goalie, Oscar Ustari, put on a hero's cape and stopped the effort!

After the break, the Florida crew woke up but couldn't find a solution for Ustari's counterpart in Al Ahly's ranks - Mohamed El Shenawy. The Egyptians' captain stepped up in key moments, noting vital saves after Tadeo Allende and Fafa Picault's attempts.

In the dying minutes, Lionel Messi sent a cross into the box and hit the bar, though El Shenawy once again touched the ball, saving his net.

Ultimately, both teams had their chances to open the tournament with a triumph, but both will undoubtedly be satisfied with avoiding defeat. In the remaining first-round clash in Group A, Porto and Palmeiras will lock horns tonight at 1 am.

FIFA CLUB WORLD CUP 2025

Matchday 1

Sunday

Al Ahly Cairo - Inter Miami 0-0

19:00: (1.01) Bayern (17.0) Auckland (60.0)

22:00: (1.90) PSG (3.85) Atletico Madrid (4.10)

Monday

00:55: (2.65) Palmeiras (3.30) Porto (2.70)

05:00: (1.95) Botafogo (3.45) Seattle (4.00)

***odds are subject to change***