Riveiro, El Shenawy, and Abou Ali eye improvement ahead of Palmeiras clash
Al Ahly FC, African football powerhouse and one of the most decorated clubs on the continent, kicked off the inaugural 32-team FIFA Club World Cup with a goalless draw against Inter Miami CF at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami. Despite flashes of brilliance and a first-half penalty opportunity, the Red Eagles were left to rue missed chances in a match filled with attacking intent from both sides.
The Cairo giants impressed early on, dominating much of the first half and earning a penalty just before the interval. However, Trezeguet’s spot kick was saved, and the MLS side escaped into halftime unscathed. The second half saw Inter Miami respond with more attacking pressure, but veteran goalkeeper Mohamed El Shenawy stood tall, making several key saves to secure a point.
Looking ahead to their next Group A fixture against Brazilian side Palmeiras on June 19, Abou Ali added, “Palmeiras will be tough, but we’ll work hard to be ready and hopefully get the result we need.”
New head coach Jose Riveiro, managing his first competitive match with Al Ahly, acknowledged both the positives and areas of improvement. “We controlled the first half but lacked sharpness after the break,” he said. “There were some mistakes and missed opportunities, but overall, it’s a decent foundation to build on.”
Goalkeeper El Shenawy echoed the sentiment, noting the challenge of playing in humid conditions. “We knew Inter Miami would come at us in the second half,” he said. “The humidity was a factor, but we earned a point, and that’s something we can build from.”
With one point secured, Al Ahly now turn their focus to Palmeiras, knowing victory is likely essential for progression in this historic tournament.
