Florida, June 15 -- Inter Miami and Al Ahly kicked off FIFA's Club World Cup with a goalless stalemate in front of a healthy crowd at Miami's Hard Rock Stadium on Saturday.

Al Ahly had the best opportunity to break the deadlock, but Trezeguet floundered during his first-half penalty, which goalkeeper Oscar Ustari saved. The Inter Miami goalkeeper was sturdy at the goalpost and boasted a remarkable performance in the opening 45 minutes of the game.

Argentinian wizard Lionel Messi, who turned up for Miami just four days after representing his nation in the World Cup qualifier against Colombia, was the beacon of hope for the MLS club. He went close with a free kick and almost set up Fafa Picault for a late winner with a late header, which ...