Inter Milan and Argentina striker Lautaro Martínez called the match against River Plate in the 2025 Club World Cup a “very special” one after helping his side secure a 2–0 win and finish top of Group E. “It was special because we played against an Argentine team. I’ve known Marcos Acuña for 10 years, and I’m close with a few guys from the national team. It meant a lot,” Lautaro said in the mixed zone.

Inter got the job done with goals from Francesco Pio Esposito in the 72nd minute and Alessandro Bastoni in stoppage time. River ended the match with just nine players after two red cards, and the Italian side, coached by Cristian Chivu, wrapped up the group stage with 7 points to move on to the round of 16.

Respect and professionalism

Despite his ties to some of River Plate’s players, Lautaro Martínez made it clear the match was treated like any other big fixture. “This is football. It’s a top-level competition. It was our turn to go through today, but I’ve always respected how River plays and how seriously they approach games,” he added.

On the River side, keeper Franco Armani stood out, making key saves to keep the scoreline close and avoid a bigger defeat. But the effort wasn’t enough to keep Marcelo Gallardo’s team from getting knocked out of the tournament.

In the other Group E match, Monterrey cruised to a 4–0 win over Urawa Red Diamonds, punching their ticket to the next round. The Mexican side finished the group stage strong and will look to keep the momentum going. In the round of 16, Inter Milan will face Fluminense, while Monterrey will take on Borussia Dortmund—two matchups that promise fireworks and plenty of drama.