River Plate's dream in the FIFA Club World Cup came to an end this Wednesday. At Lumen Field in Seattle, the team coached by Marcelo Gallardo was outplayed in a 2-0 loss to a solid Inter Milan, who not only topped Group E, but also eliminated the Argentine side and advanced to the tournament’s Round of 16.

Goals from Francesco Pio Esposito (72’) and Alessandro Bastoni (93’) sealed the win for the Italian team, in a match where Franco Armani made several key saves to avoid an even heavier defeat. Despite his efforts, River couldn’t hold on and finished with nine men after red cards to Lucas Martínez Quarta and Gonzalo Montiel.

Red cards, mistakes, and a painful elimination

With the score still 0-0, Lucas Martínez Quarta was shown a straight red card in the 66th minute after a harsh tackle. That moment shifted the momentum: Inter, already dominating possession and chances, took advantage of the space and struck through Esposito just six minutes later.

The team led by Cristian Chivu, who recently took over as head coach, showcased its class with patience and precision. In stoppage time, Bastoni sealed the deal with a second goal, while Montiel was also sent off for a second yellow, capping a bitter night for the Buenos Aires club.

With this victory, Inter Milan finished the group stage with 7 points, securing the top spot. They will now face Fluminense in the Round of 16. Meanwhile, Monterrey, who crushed Urawa Red Diamonds 4-0, also advanced and will meet Borussia Dortmund.

For River Plate, the outcome brings more disappointment than positives: lacking offensive sharpness, outmuscled physically, and undone by crucial mistakes, the Argentine side exits the tournament early. It’s a heavy blow for the squad and for coach Gallardo, who had placed big hopes on this competition.

Here are all the goals from the match.