Sergio Ramos marked his FIFA Club World Cup debut with a crucial goal as Monterrey earned a 1-1 draw against UEFA Champions League 2024–25 runners-up Inter Milan on Wednesday. The Group E clash at the Rose Bowl Stadium in California saw the veteran Spanish defender lead by example, helping the Mexican side secure a vital point to kick off their campaign.
Facing a star-studded Inter Milan side, Monterrey were expected to be up against it. But they struck first through their most experienced figure. Ramos, 39, rose above Alessandro Bastoni to meet a well-delivered corner from Oliver Torres, sending a powerful header into the right corner in the 25th minute to give his team the lead.
The goal was a reminder of Ramos’ enduring quality, as the former Real Madrid captain not only delivered at a key moment but also led from the front, rallying his teammates throughout the match. Monterrey maintained their composure against a high-pressing Inter side and defended solidly for much of the first half.
However, Inter found an equaliser before the break. In the 42nd minute, Lisandro Martínez finished off a well-crafted move with a confident strike after being set up by Carlos Augusto, bringing the Italian side level.
The second half saw Inter pushing hard for a winner, dominating possession and creating several half-chances. But Monterrey held firm, showing defensive discipline and resilience, with Ramos marshalling the backline effectively.
The result leaves both teams with one point each in Group E, but Monterrey currently sit above Inter due to a better goal difference.
Earlier in the day, River Plate made a strong start to their Club World Cup campaign with a commanding 3-1 win over Japan’s Urawa Reds. The Argentine giants took control early, with Facundo Colidio opening the scoring in the 12th minute.
Sebastián Driussi and Maximiliano Meza added goals in the second half to seal the result for River Plate, who now sit atop the Group E table with three points. Despite Urawa Reds pulling one back, the outcome was never in doubt as the South American side demonstrated their attacking prowess.
Group E Standings After Matchday 1:
With two more matchdays remaining in the group, the race for knockout stage qualification remains wide open. Ramos’ impact and River Plate’s statement win have already set the tone for an exciting tournament.