Messi debuted in the Club World Cup, but the Inter Miami player who took all the applause was.

The FIFA Club World Cup officially kicked off today with a highly anticipated inaugural match featuring Major League Soccer's Inter Miami and Egyptian giants Al-Ahly. In a contest that saw Al-Ahly claim a 2-0 victory, it was Inter Miami's veteran goalkeeper, Oscar Ustari, who emerged as the undeniable standout, drawing widespread applause for his exceptional performance.

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The match, held at the newly constructed Lusail Stadium, marked a significant moment for both clubs and the tournament. Inter Miami, making their debut in the prestigious global club competition, faced a formidable challenge against an experienced Al-Ahly squad, known for their continental dominance in Africa.

From the opening whistle, Al-Ahly asserted their attacking intent, forcing Ustari into action early and often. The 38-year-old Argentine, a seasoned professional with a career spanning top leagues in Europe and South America, demonstrated his pedigree with a series of crucial saves. He commanded his area with authority, showcasing sharp reflexes and excellent positioning to deny Al-Ahly's forwards on multiple occasions.

Despite Ustari's heroics, Al-Ahly eventually broke the deadlock in the 34th minute through a well-placed shot from their prolific striker, Mahmoud Kahraba. The goal came after sustained pressure, but Ustari had already made several impressive stops to keep his team in the game.

The second half saw a continuation of Al-Ahly's offensive push, and Ustari remained a busy man between the posts. He made a spectacular diving save in the 62nd minute to tip a powerful shot wide, drawing gasps from the crowd and visible frustration from the Al-Ahly bench. His ability to anticipate play and react quickly to dangerous situations was consistently on display.

Al-Ahly secured their second goal in the 78th minute, with Percy Tau finding the back of the net, ultimately sealing the win for the Egyptian champions. While the scoreline reflected Al-Ahly's superiority on the day, it did not diminish the impact of Ustari's individual effort.

Throughout the match, every save Ustari made was met with an appreciative murmur, growing into genuine applause as his performance continued to defy Al-Ahly's relentless attacks. By the final whistle, despite Inter Miami's loss, it was Oscar Ustari's name that was on the lips of many spectators and commentators. His display was a testament to his enduring quality and experience, providing a glimmer of individual brilliance for the MLS side in their Club World Cup debut.

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Inter Miami will now look to regroup for their next fixture in the tournament, while Al-Ahly advances, building on a strong start to their Club World Cup campaign.