Nigeria, June 15 -- The FIFA Club World Cup started on a thrilling but goalless note early Sunday morning at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami

Egyptian giants Al Ahly battled to a hard-fought 0-0 draw against Inter Miami, shutting down Lionel Messi and nearly claiming a famous win.

The African powerhouse were the more dominant side in the first half and came closest to breaking the deadlock, but were continually denied by an inspired performance from Inter Miami's goalkeeper, Oscar Ustari.

Ustari finished with eight saves, including a vital stop from a Trezeguet penalty in the 43rd minute.

Despite Miami's second-half resurgence, the match remained scoreless, though not without late drama.

Messi nearly snatched a last-minute winner with ...