Latest on Inter Miami vs Al Ahly: scoreless draw, Ustari penalty save, Ashour injury, Messi’s near miss—complete match insights and background.
Match Overview: Inter Miami Held by Al Ahly in Intense Opener
In the inaugural match of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup at Hard Rock Stadium, Inter Miami and Egypt’s Al Ahly battled to a goal‑less 0‑0 draw on June 14, 2025. The high-stakes clash lived up to expectations: stellar saves, near-misses, and nail-biting drama. This match sets the tone for both clubs as they navigate their way through a revamped 32-team tournament format. (thesun.co.uk, aljazeera.com)
Oscar Ustari’s Heroic Night
Despite Messi’s steady presence, it was veteran goalkeeper Óscar Ustari who emerged as the match hero. The Argentine stopper made eight saves, including a crucial penalty denial from Al Ahly’s Trezéguet just before halftime. His performance drew a 9.7 Sofascore rating, surpassing the Egyptian keeper El Shenawy’s 8.6 (as.com).
MLS and Inter Miami sources hailed him as a "lights‑out performance," crediting his sharp reflexes for maintaining the clean sheet.
Messi’s Near Misses & Miami’s Second‑Half Surge
Lionel Messi, who struggled in the first half, found rhythm in the second. He hit the crossbar with a sublime free‑kick and saw a late strike from Falcón dramatically saved, keeping the score at 0‑0 (elpais.com).
According to coach Javier Mascherano, the team’s possession surged to 58%, while creating 15 shots vs Al Ahly’s 10 (intermiamicf.com). Mascherano praised the players' second‑half composure but expressed frustration at not converting opportunities.
Al Ahly’s Setback: Ashour Ruled Out
A blow for the Egyptian side: midfield engine Emam Ashour was substituted in the 14th minute after suffering a broken collarbone and will miss the rest of the tournament. The club confirmed the diagnosis following tests at a Miami hospital (reuters.com). Ashour, currently the Egyptian Premier League’s top scorer, leaves a noticeable gap in Al Ahly’s creative engine.
Atmosphere & Tournament Context
More than 60,900 fans filled Hard Rock Stadium—nearly full capacity at 65,000—for a match that felt like a home fixture, especially with Palestinian and Egyptian supporters contributing vocal energy (espn.com). The tournament runs from June 14 to July 13 across the U.S. and features 32 top clubs, including PSG, Real Madrid, Chelsea, and champions Manchester City. (thesun.co.uk)
FAQ: Common User Queries Answered
Q1: What was the final score of Inter Miami vs Al Ahly in the Club World Cup?
A1: The match ended in a 0‑0 draw.
Q2: Who saved the penalty during the game?
A2: Óscar Ustari saved Trezéguet's spot-kick in the 43rd minute. (as.com)
Q3: Did Messi score?
A3: No—but he hit the crossbar with a free kick and forced several key saves.
Q4: Will Emam Ashour play again?
A4: Unfortunately not—he’s sidelined for the tournament with a broken collarbone. (reuters.com)
Background: Tournament Format & Group A Road Ahead
This Club World Cup marks a historic expansion to 32 teams (eight groups). Group A includes Inter Miami, Al Ahly, FC Porto, and Palmeiras (en.wikipedia.org). Florida’s side next faces Porto on June 19 in Atlanta, while Al Ahly meets Palmeiras that same day (intermiamicf.com).
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“Inter Miami vs Al Ahly scoreline Club World Cup”
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“Ustari penalty save highlights”
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“Ashour broken collarbone injury update”
Match Highlights
Inter Miami and Al Ahly BATTLE to Intense 0‑0 Draw – Club World Cup Highlights
Fan & Expert Insights
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Spanish-speaking media described the game as lacking precision despite spectacle (elpais.com, reuters.com).
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Al Jazeera praised Messi's influence in the second half, noting a “surprisingly thrilling” matchup (aljazeera.com).
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Inter Miami officials emphasized the performance as a major milestone in the club’s evolution since its 2019 inception.
Conclusion
The 0‑0 draw between Inter Miami and Al Ahly delivers a story of grit over glamour—Ustari’s heroics and Messi’s late flair, while overshadowing the setback of Ashour’s injury. For both teams, the match offered lessons and momentum in their Group A campaigns. Looking ahead, Inter Miami must capitalize on scoring chances against Porto, while Al Ahly must adapt without Ashour.
This match wasn’t just an opener—it set the tone for drama, intensity, and world-class competition. Fans should expect more of the same as Group A unfolds. Will Messi and company break the deadlock in Atlanta? Or will Al Ahly rise to the challenge even without a key player? The tournament’s chapter has just begun—and the world is watching.
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