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.

After more than a year of uncertainty and criticism, the Club World Cup kicked off in Miami on Saturday and soccer may never be the same. At least

The opening game of the FIFA Club World Cup is scheduled tongiht at Hard Rock Stadium featuring Inter Miami FC and global star Lionel Messi.