Inter Milan Crush Nine-Man River Plate to Secure Club World Cup Last-16 Berth
Inter Milan showed why they are among the tournament favorites as they defeated Argentina’s River Plate 2–0 in a high-intensity clash at Seattle’s Lumen Field, securing a spot in the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 Round of 16. With this win, the Italian champions set up a highly anticipated showdown with Brazil’s Fluminense.
⚽ Match Recap: Drama, Goals & Red Cards
The match had all the elements of a classic knockout tie—goals, red cards, heated moments, and standout performances.
After a goalless but physical first half, the deadlock was broken in the 72nd minute by 19-year-old sensation Francesco Esposito. Making a dream mark in a crucial game, Esposito latched onto a clever pass from Petar Sucic, shrugged off his marker, and curled a stunning shot into the bottom corner for his first goal with the senior team.
Just minutes earlier, River Plate’s night began to unravel when Lucas Martínez Quarta received a straight red in the 66th minute for a foul on Henrikh Mkhitaryan, who was through on goal. Things went from bad to worse when Gonzalo Montiel was sent off in stoppage time after picking up a second yellow.
Inter sealed the win in the dying moments, with Alessandro Bastoni capitalizing on River’s weakened defense to slot home a second goal in injury time.
🔥 Rising Star: Francesco Esposito
The spotlight was firmly on young Francesco Esposito, who made his mark with a composed and clinical finish. His performance not only helped Inter win but also showcased the depth of their squad.
“Scoring in a Club World Cup match is something I dreamed about,” Esposito said after the game. “To do it in such an important match means everything.”
🟥 River Plate's Collapse
It was a night of frustration and missed chances for River Plate. Despite a strong first half, their lack of discipline proved costly. The double red card setback left them with just nine players on the field, and the game slipped from their grasp.
Their fans’ frustration boiled over too, with objects being thrown onto the pitch—a reflection of how much the loss stung for the Argentine side.
🗣️ What the Managers Said
Inter Milan’s manager Cristian Chivu praised his team's resilience:
“We got the job done, that's the most important thing. The first half was intense, they put us under pressure. But we adapted, controlled the second half, and took our chances.”
On the other hand, River Plate's camp had no comments after the match, walking off visibly disappointed.
🏆 What’s Next?
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Inter Milan will now face Fluminense of Brazil in the Round of 16 on Monday, June 30.
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Monterrey, who topped Group E after a dominant 4–0 win over Urawa Red Diamonds, will clash with Borussia Dortmund on July 2.
With this win, Inter Milan continues their march toward Club World Cup glory, while River Plate bow out in frustration and controversy.
📌 Final Thoughts
This victory not only sends Inter Milan into the next round but also serves as a statement to their future opponents. Despite early struggles, Inter’s discipline, tactical strength, and a touch of youthful brilliance helped them overcome a fiery River Plate side. All eyes now turn to their clash with Fluminense—a fixture that promises more fireworks.
Reference from:- https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/international/us/inter-milan-down-nine-man-river-plate-to-storm-into-club-world-cup-last-16/articleshow/122082014.cms?from=mdr