(Video) Messi’s Free-Kick Illusion Stuns Fans in Club World Cup Opener

In one of the most dramatic scenes of the Club World cup 2025 opener, Lionel Messi nearly sent Inter Miami fans into celebration but it was false alarm.

In the 64 minute, the Argentine legend stepped up to take free kick from just outside the box. The curling shot looked destined for the net brushing past the right post & rippling the side netting behind Al Ahly goalkeeper Mohamed El Shenawy.

For moment the stadium erupted , many believed Messi'd scored. Even fans watching on TV were fooled by the optical illusion.

VAR & Replay Say No

However replay footage quickly confirmed the ball didn’t cross the goal line denying Messi what would have been spectacular opener.

Goalless Stalemate Increases Pressure

The match ended 0 - 0 giving both teams single point in Group A and leaving Al Ahly facing uphill battle.

The Egyptian giants will now face Palmeiras on Thursday 19 June before taking on FC Porto on Monday 23 June in 2 crucial clashes that will define their fate in the tournament.

Khaled Hegazy |

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Journaliste sportif spécialisé dans la couverture du football et la création de contenu numérique, alliant expérience éditoriale et expertise des médias sociaux.