Inter Milan and Monterrey Share Points in Club World Cup Opener

Match Overview

In the opening match of the Club World Cup on Tuesday night, Inter Milan faced Monterrey, resulting in a 1-1 draw. This match marked Inter's first appearance since their defeat in the Champions League final.

Monterrey's veteran Spanish player, Sergio Ramos, thrilled the largely pro-Mexico audience in Southern California by scoring a remarkable header in the first half. However, Lautaro Martínez equalized for Inter just before halftime, but despite dominating possession with nearly 62%, they couldn't secure a second goal, while Monterrey managed only one shot on target.

After Ramos put Monterrey ahead, Martínez responded in the 42nd minute, finishing off a brilliant play initiated from a set piece with a tap-in from Carlos Augusto's assist.

Martínez had a chance to score again in the 68th minute, but was ruled offside. Both teams came close to scoring in the dying moments of the match, and Martínez received a yellow card during injury time in the second half.

Coach Simone Inzaghi's lineup saw Chivu starting only seven matches in the Champions League final. Striker Marcus Thuram, who has been struggling with injuries, replaced 22-year-old Sebastiano Esposito early in the second half. Esposito was making his first appearance for Inter since returning from seven loan spells since 2020.

Key Moments and Insights

Inter Milan began the match strongly, but it was Ramos who capitalized on Monterrey's first corner, outjumping two defenders to score with an acrobatic header. The former Real Madrid star, who joined Monterrey four months ago, showcased his experience.

Despite the draw, Inter Milan still seems to be grappling with the aftermath of their loss in Munich. Both teams, however, have a solid opportunity to progress from a group that also features River Plate and Urawa Red Diamonds.