A Star-Studded Start with More Shine Than Substance
The 2025 FIFA Club World Cup kicked off with fireworks, bright lights, and a packed Hard Rock Stadium in Miami. Yet, as exciting as the opening ceremony was—with dancing, music, and celebrities—the football match that followed failed to match the hype.
Inter Miami, led by football legend Lionel Messi, played to a disappointing 0-0 draw against Egyptian champions Al Ahly. The game was expected to be a thrilling start to the tournament, but instead, it felt more like a confusing warm-up.
FIFA’s Big Show – Flashy but Hollow
FIFA’s new Club World Cup format is being promoted as a major global event. With more teams, more games, and big names like Messi involved, the organization wants to turn it into a football version of the Super Bowl.
But if the first match is anything to go by, the plan might need more work. Despite the bright lights and loud music, the actual game lacked excitement. It felt like FIFA was more interested in selling the event than creating real sporting drama.
Messi Still Draws Cheers, But His Magic Fades
Lionel Messi remains the biggest reason fans are tuning in. When he walked onto the pitch, the crowd erupted. Cameras flashed, people stood, and a buzz filled the stadium.
But once the game started, Messi seemed off. He looked like a man going through the motions—still graceful, still smart with the ball—but not the powerful force he once was. There were glimpses of his brilliance in the second half, but it was like watching a legend perform in slow motion.
At times, it felt sad. Messi is still adored by millions, but using him as the face of this new FIFA event—when he’s clearly past his peak—feels like emotional manipulation.
Al Ahly Outplays Inter Miami Early On
Al Ahly, the best club team in Africa, started strong and should have taken the lead early. They created several chances and even missed a penalty. Inter Miami, in contrast, looked lost during the first half, with no real rhythm or teamwork.
Things improved in the second half when Messi became more involved, helping Miami create a few chances. But the match ended 0-0, a fair result given the overall performance from both sides.
An Event Built for the Cameras, Not for the Fans
One of the biggest criticisms of this new Club World Cup is that it feels more like a product than a sporting competition. FIFA appears focused on global branding, sponsorships, and attention-grabbing moments. Real football seems to come second.
Saturday’s game felt more like an ad campaign than a match. A YouTuber (IShowSpeed) was even brought on at halftime to kick balls and entertain the crowd—a sign of how much FIFA wants to appeal to online audiences.
The Opening Ceremony Outshines the Match
The most memorable part of the night was the opening ceremony. With fireworks, DJs, dancers, and even a dramatic voiceover shouting “take it to the world,” the event felt like a concert rather than a football match.
The stadium, shaped like a white castle under Miami’s hot night sky, was packed with fans. The city’s energy and love for stars like Messi made the event feel electric, even if the football didn’t deliver.
A Deeper Issue: Sport Used as a Tool
Beyond the flashy show and poor football, there’s a bigger issue at play. This tournament seems less about football and more about politics and power. FIFA, by placing Messi at the center of this event, is using his fame to sell a product that may not have much sporting value.
It’s a reminder of how sports, especially football, are being used to promote global interests, attract investment, and shape public opinion. The beauty and joy of the game are at risk of becoming tools for corporate and political gain.
Miami Still Loves Its Nights
Despite everything, the fans in Miami had a good time. The stadium was full. The weather was warm. The vibe was fun. And for many, just being in the same place as Messi made the night worth it.
But for real football lovers, the night left a bitter taste. The Club World Cup began with a show—but what’s a show without substance?
The first match of the new-look Club World Cup showed all the signs of a tournament trying to be everything at once: a concert, a business, a political platform—and, somewhere in between, a football competition.
Messi will always be a legend. But using him in this way, in this type of event, feels forced and artificial. For now, the Club World Cup is a glittery package with very little real sport inside.
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