FIFA Club World Cup: How Did Lionel Messi Perform Against Al Ahly In Tournament Opener?

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Lionel Messi's return to the global stage with Inter Miami in their FIFA Club World Cup 2025 opener was a tale of two halves. The Argentine icon had a relatively quiet first half as Al Ahly dominated possession and pinned Miami deep.

Marked tightly and lacking support in the attacking third, Messi struggled to assert his usual influence early on and even suffered a minor knock to his knee after a collision-but quickly recovered and played the full 90 minutes.

In the second half, however, Messi began to come alive.

Despite not scoring or assisting, he was at the heart of Inter Miami's resurgence. He had one shot on target, a curling effort from outside the box that was comfortably saved, and came agonizingly close to scoring twice-one strike rattled the woodwork, while another hit the side-netting after a low-driven free-kick. His creativity shone through with two key passes and one big chance created, as Miami pushed hard for a late winner.

Messi completed three of his four attempted dribbles, showing glimpses of his vintage footwork, and was accurate with two of four long balls to switch play under pressure. Off the ball, he contributed effectively as well, winning eight duels, drawing three fouls, and even making two tackles-a testament to his determination to contribute defensively.

Though he didn't get on the scoresheet, Lionel Messi's intelligent play and growing influence in the second half were pivotal in Inter Miami's improved performance after the break. If this showing is anything to go by, Messi is warming up for a strong campaign in the Club World Cup. This performance will get him a 7/10 performance from us.

In the earlier format of the FIFA Club World Cup, Messi has scored 5 goals in as many games and clinched the title in 2009, 2011 and 2015 all with FC Barcelona.