Lionel Messi took center stage amid tight security as the revamped Club World Cup kicked off in the United States on Saturday.
Inter Miami, led by the Argentine legend, played out an entertaining 0-0 draw with Egyptian giants Al Ahly in the tournament opener.
Miami had goalkeeper Oscar Ustari to thank for preserving the clean sheet, as the man of the match produced a series of crucial saves, including one from the penalty spot.
Messi came close to breaking the deadlock in the second half with a free-kick, and nearly won the match late on with a stunning long-range strike, only to be denied by a superb save from Mohamed El Shenawy, who tipped the shot onto the crossbar.
While the tournament has faced criticism in some quarters, attention was finally focused on the action—at least for now.
Strong Police Presence in Miami
Saturday’s matchday was the first real indication that a major international event was underway.
Around South Beach, travelling Al Ahly fans gathered at cafes and restaurants ahead of kick-off.
The Egyptian champions, winners of 45 domestic league titles and 12 continental trophies, boast an illustrious history but were unable to translate that success to the global stage on this occasion.
Billboards along Route 95 leading to the Hard Rock Stadium promoted the clash in typically grand American style, declaring “Showtime.”
Memories of last year’s Copa America final at the same venue, where ticketless fans forced their way inside and delayed kick-off by 80 minutes, led authorities to take extensive precautions this time.
Police vehicles with flashing lights lined the streets, while officers with ‘counter terrorism’ badges patrolled the stadium’s perimeter.
Security was visibly heightened, with supporters undergoing multiple checks and bag searches before being allowed entry.
Additional screenings at a second perimeter added to the wait, but ensured tighter control.
It remains to be seen whether similar measures will be implemented at Sunday’s fixtures in Los Angeles, Cincinnati, New York/New Jersey, and Seattle.
