The expanded Club World Cup has kicked off with healthy crowds, "Messi mania" and a festival atmosphere in Miami, giving an early vindication to world football body FIFA after fears of empty stands and global disinterest.

Lionel Messi was denied a sensational late winner as Inter Miami had to settle for a 0-0 draw against Egypt’s Al Ahly in the opening game of the Club World Cup on Saturday night.

The expert notes that Inter Miami's defense is its weakness, and they are likely to concede.

The tournament features some of soccer's biggest stars, like Lionel Messi and iconic teams like Spain's Real Madrid.

But this was his baby — so much so that his name is etched not once, but twice, onto a giant golden trophy crafted by Tiffany & Co. that will be lifted by the winner on July 13.