Inter Milan began their FIFA Club World Cup (CWC) campaign with a 1-1 draw against Monterrey, where a first-half header from Sergio Ramos ensured Rayadas secured a crucial point against the UEFA Champions League runners-up.
After a lacklustre conclusion to the 2024-2025 season that saw them fail to capture any of the four trophies on offer, Inter aimed to make a strong statement at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena. While they dominated the early phases, Cristian Chivu’s side struggled to find their rhythm and lacked precision in the final third.
This inability to convert chances would come back to haunt them when Monterrey seized an unexpected lead in the 25th minute, capitalising on their first genuine opportunity.
A dazzling run by Sergio Canales through the midfield led to a corner, which was met by Sergio Ramos’ header amidst a congested penalty area.
Determined to respond, the Nerazzurri were unlucky not to level the score just three minutes later, as Esteban Andrada produced a spectacular save to deny Sebastiano Esposito after a perfectly timed cross from Carlos Augusto.
The equaliser came just before half-time, thanks to a clever free-kick routine orchestrated by Kristjan Asllani, allowing Augusto to set up the ever-reliable Lautaro Martinez for a simple finish.
Shortly after the hour mark, Canales’ low strike threatened to put Monterrey back in front, yet Inter Milan increasingly created the more promising opportunities during the second half.
Martinez, in particular, had a golden chance to extend his tally, only to be flagged offside after a touch in the 68th minute, and then went agonisingly high and wide ten minutes later.
There were positives for Chivu to take from his first match in command of Inter Milan, as the team secured a hard-fought point, while Monterrey extended their impressive scoring streak, netting in 12 of their 13 appearances in the CWC.
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Compiled by SportArena.com.au.
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