With a lot of skepticism, too little interest and doubts about its success, the 1st Club World Championship kicked off in Florida last night with 32 clubs. The home team, Inter Miami, played a goalless draw with Egyptian Al Ahly at the "Hard Rock" stadium.
The Lionel Messi effect, FIFA's forced decision to make student tickets only four dollars, kept the promise of Gianni Infantino, the first man in world football, that "Hard Rock" would be fulfilled.
Thus, 61.000 spectators watched an excellent match in which the main roles were played by the goalkeepers.
Oscar Ustari saved Trezeguet's penalty in the 43rd minute, Mohamed El Shenawy managed to withstand Messi's attacks and save the net.
El Shenawy and Al Ahly pulled away in the final minutes of stoppage time. The Egyptian club dominated the first half, and Inter Miami took over the game in the second half.
Both clubs have a point each in Group A, which also includes Portuguese club Porto and Brazilian club Palmeiras.
Messi came close to scoring from a free kick in the 64th minute, but to the disappointment of the spectators, the ball hit the outside of the net.
In the final moments, El Shenawy saved a shot from Messi with the help of the crossbar. Inter Miami's next match is on Thursday against Porto in Atlanta.
Messi, although he failed to score on several occasions, showed excellent form.
"In the first half we were very nervous and worried, which is normal given the context. In the second half we were more patient. We played all over the field, created chances and could have scored the winning goal. But it's a 90-minute game and let's not forget that we struggled in that first half," said Javier Mascherano, Miami coach, and added:
"It's clear that when we find Messi in the right positions we have more options and chances. In the first half we kept trying to find him with the first ball, but they were ready for it. When we were more patient, we managed to find Leo. And we all know what he can do when he gets space."
A-Ahly coach Jose Rivero was not happy with the missed opportunities in the first half.
"It's a shame we didn't use any of them. In the second half, Miami got better and better. We have to be better in the rest of the tournament. We made sure Messi was cut off from his assists, but Isak caused us problems in the second half."
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