Argentina player, not Messi, named MVP in Inter Miami’s Club World Cup opener

While all eyes were on Lionel Messi, it was another Argentine who stole the spotlight in Inter Miami’s FIFA Club World Cup opener on Saturday night in Miami.

The veteran goalkeeper Oscar Ustari was named MVP of the goalless draw against Egypt’s Al Ahly, impressing with his composure, and impeccable performance under the goalpost.

Ustari delivered a standout performance with eight saves, including a crucial penalty stop and a key goal-line intervention, as Inter Miami battled Egypt's Al Ahly to a 0-0 draw in their Group A opener.


His most pivotal moment came just before halftime, when he denied Trezeguet’s penalty and quickly reacted to smother the rebound before Al Ahly could capitalize.

Earlier, in the 33rd minute, Ustari showcased his reflexes with a brilliant save on a powerful header - a moment that ranked just behind his penalty heroics in preserving the clean sheet for Miami.

“I don't like to talk about myself. The team did a great job defensively and that is what I most care about,” Ustari said after the match.

“I remember being retired and knew that my return would come on a field, so I'm very happy about it (being back).”

The 38-year-old Ustari made a memorable return to the World Cup stage in the revamped FIFA Club World Cup format, nearly two decades after winning the U-20 World Cup in 2005 - a title he claimed alongside none other than his current Inter Miami captain, Messi.