Inter Miami, led by Lionel Messi, opened their 2025 Club World Cup campaign with a disappointing scoreless draw against Al Ahly of Egypt. The match, held at Inter Miami's home stadium, Hard Rock Stadium, saw both teams struggling to find the back of the net despite several scoring opportunities.
The highly anticipated match marked the start of the expanded 32-team FIFA Club World Cup, and Inter Miami's participation was largely attributed to Messi's arrival and impact on the team. The club secured a spot in the tournament due to their outstanding performance in the 2024 MLS season, where they broke the all-time MLS record for most points and secured the Supporters' Shield.
Messi himself acknowledged that he approaches this Club World Cup with a different mindset compared to his previous experiences with Barcelona, where he won the tournament three times. While still full of energy and hope, he recognizes the challenges of competing against global powerhouses with Inter Miami.
The match against Al Ahly saw moments of brilliance from Messi, but ultimately, the Egyptian team's defense held strong, preventing him from adding to his goal tally. Inter Miami's Luis Suarez also had a relatively quiet game failing to convert the few chances that came his way.
Despite the draw, Inter Miami remains optimistic about their chances in the tournament. They are placed in Group A alongside Porto and Palmeiras, and they will need to secure victories in those matches to advance to the next stage. The competition features top clubs from around the world, including European giants like Real Madrid, Manchester City and Bayern Munich.
The Club World Cup presents a unique opportunity for Inter Miami to compete on a global stage and showcase the growth of soccer in the United States. Messi's presence has undoubtedly elevated the profile of the sport in the country, attracting more fans and increasing commercial opportunities.
Looking ahead, Inter Miami will need to improve their attacking efficiency and find ways to break down tough defenses if they hope to make a deep run in the tournament. The team's success will largely depend on Messi's ability to inspire his teammates and create scoring opportunities.
The expanded Club World Cup format offers a more inclusive and competitive environment, with teams from different continents vying for the title. Inter Miami's participation adds an extra layer of excitement to the tournament, as fans around the world eagerly watch Messi's quest for another trophy.
