The 2025 FIFA Club World Cup kicked off in style at Hard Rock Stadium, with Inter Miami and Al Ahly SC battling to an electrifying 0-0 draw. While the scoreboard may not reflect it, this Group C encounter had everything—world-class saves, end-to-end action, missed chances, and a pulsating atmosphere that left fans, including many Kenyans watching from home or betting online, on the edge of their seats.
First Half: Óscar Ustari’s Masterclass
The Egyptian giants Al Ahly, known as Al-Shayateen Al-Homr (The Red Devils), dominated the early proceedings. Óscar Ustari, Inter Miami’s veteran goalkeeper, stole the show with a stunning sequence of saves.
- 8th minute: Wessam Abou Ali broke through, forcing Ustari into a reflex stop.
- Emam Ashour followed shortly with a shot that was again parried away.
- Achraf Dari came closest, denied from point-blank range in a breathtaking moment.
- Just before halftime, Zizo won a penalty after going down in the box, but Trézéguet’s spot-kick and rebound were both miraculously saved by Ustari.
It was a heroic first-half performance, with Ustari single-handedly keeping the MLS side in the match.
Al Ahly’s Missed Chances and Defensive Solidity
Despite peppering the Miami goal, Al Ahly couldn’t convert their dominance into goals. Yet, they almost conceded before halftime, with only Wessam Abou Ali’s goalline clearance preserving the deadlock. It was a reminder that even in control, one lapse could change everything.
Second Half: Miami’s Moment and El Shenawy’s Brilliance
Coach Javier Mascherano’s halftime talk worked. Inter Miami came out with renewed energy and threatened Al Ahly’s goal for the first time:
- Tadeo Allende found himself six yards out but was thwarted by a sprawling Mohamed El Shenawy, who delivered a world-class save of his own.
- The final 20 minutes saw the game slow down, likely due to the intense Florida heat.
As time ticked away, Lionel Messi almost produced the moment of magic that fans came to see. His curling effort looked destined for the top corner, only for El Shenawy’s fingertips to tip it onto the crossbar.
What It Means for Group C
In a group that includes Porto and Palmeiras, this was a golden opportunity for both teams to grab early momentum. Although it ended in a draw, both Inter Miami and Al Ahly showcased enough to suggest they’ll be tough contenders in their remaining group fixtures.
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Final Thoughts
Though the opening game of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup ended goalless, it was anything but dull. With both Óscar Ustari and Mohamed El Shenawy delivering world-class performances and moments of brilliance from both sides, this draw sets the stage for an exciting tournament.
As Group C unfolds, Kenyan fans can expect even more drama, goals, and moments of magic. And who knows—maybe Al Ahly can finally make a deep run, representing Africa proudly.
