Riveiro: We Should Have Won Against Messi’s Miami

Al Ahly coach Jose Riveiro believes his side should have won their opening FIFA Club World Cup match against Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami, despite the game ending in a goalless draw.

Riveiro, in his first official match in charge of the Egyptian giants after joining from Orlando Pirates, stated that Al Ahly controlled the proceedings, particularly in the first half.

The match, held at Hard Rock Stadium on Friday, saw the CAF Champions League record holders miss a penalty through Trezeguet in the first half, while Inter Miami goalkeeper Oscar Ustari made numerous crucial saves.

“We were in control in the first half, but our performance dipped a bit in the second,” Riveiro reflected after the game. “When we had some issues in transition, we misplaced a few passes. However, there are plenty of positives to take away from the match, as well as a few areas we know we can improve.”

He added, “This was my first official match in charge of the side, and obviously it’s very different to playing in Egypt. I’m very happy to be here, representing Al Ahly. Hopefully, things will go our way in our next match.”

Veteran goalkeeper El Shenawy, one of the standout players for the African outfit, denied Messi with a late save, tipping the ball over the bar where it also grazed the crossbar. El Shenawy, however, viewed the result as a well-earned point given the challenging conditions.

“Inter Miami are a great side. In the first half, we did what we needed to and were the better side, but we dropped off a bit in the second half because we knew they’d come out strongly after the break. The humidity got to us a bit too, but at least we got a draw in the end,” said the formidable goalkeeper.

Al Ahly currently tops Group A with one point, following a goalless draw between Palmeiras and FC Porto on Sunday. Riveiro’s side will aim to solidify their top spot when they face Palmeiras at MetLife Stadium on Thursday [18:00].