Lionel Messi debuted in the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 with Inter Miami on June 14, 2025, but the match ended in a frustrating 0-0 draw against Egypt’s Al Ahly at Hard Rock Stadium. Before the game, social media buzzed as Messi ignored YouTube star IShowSpeed and instead chose to warmly embrace soccer legend Pepe, as reported by Marca.
Before kickoff, Messi, 38, shared a moment with former Real Madrid defender Pepe, bypassing IShowSpeed, who was reportedly eager for an interaction. X posts, captured the streamer’s stunned reaction, with fans speculating whether Messi’s focus on the game or past criticism from IShowSpeed, a known Cristiano Ronaldo supporter, played a role. The moment, highlighted in a half-time crossbar challenge featuring IShowSpeed, added a viral subplot to the match.
When @ishowspeedsui saw Messi in the flesh… 😱#FIFACWC pic.twitter.com/CWmSv1ZL3U
— FIFA Club World Cup (@FIFACWC) June 15, 2025Al Ahly dominated the first half, created clear chances, and earned a penalty in the 43rd minute following a foul. Inter Miami goalkeeper Óscar Ustari saved Mahmoud Trezeguet’s penalty kick and quickly blocked the rebound, keeping the match scoreless, as reported by Al Jazeera. Inter Miami struggled to maintain possession, appeared sluggish, and relied heavily on Messi, who dropped deep to find the ball but could not consistently spark sustained attacks.
The second half saw Inter Miami improve, with Messi linking up with Luis Suárez to create chances. A late curling shot from Messi struck the crossbar, the closest either side came to scoring, per The Guardian. Al Ahly’s goalkeeper, Mohamed El Shenawy, made crucial saves, including a stoppage-time header from Maximiliano Falcón, ensuring a draw. The result leaves Inter Miami under pressure ahead of their next group stage match against FC Porto on June 19.
The scoreless draw highlights the competitive new 32-team Club World Cup format, challenging even stars like Messi, while the IShowSpeed snub underscores his global influence.
