Lautaro levels it for Inter!

Rayados shock with Ramos leading the way

The starting XI for Rayados!

¡Inter presents its 11 warriors!

Rayados de Monterrey are set to make their 2025 Club World Cup debut this Tuesday with a major challenge ahead: facing the mighty Inter Milan, runners-up in the most recent Champions League. The match will be held at the historic Rose Bowl Stadium in Pasadena, where the Mexican side hopes to capitalize on their international experience and the leadership of stars like Sergio Ramos.

With only three weeks at the helm, Spanish coach Domènec Torrent, a former assistant to Pep Guardiola, has focused on strengthening the team’s defensive structure — an area where Monterrey struggled during the last domestic tournament. Despite having a world-class center-back like Ramos, the team showed inconsistency in the Clausura, which led to their early playoff exit.

“We must proudly represent the club and Mexican football,” said Torrent in the pre-match press conference. “We’ve held our own against teams like Chelsea and Liverpool in past editions, and that experience will help us now,” he added.

Rayados vs. Inter: A clash of history and talent

On the other side, Inter Milan, led by Romanian coach Cristian Chivu, arrives wounded after being thrashed by PSG in the Champions League final. However, they remain a title contender with a squad full of stars such as Lautaro Martínez, Nicolò Barella, and Federico Dimarco. While key players like Yann Bisseck and Hakan Çalhanoglu might miss the match, Inter is still the favorite in the group.

Rayados, meanwhile, will rely on a blend of experience and youth. Sergio Canales will command the midfield, alongside promising talents like Fidel Ambriz and Nelson Deossa. “We’re getting closer to the playing style I envision,” Torrent said, expressing confidence in his squad’s ability to challenge the European powerhouse.

Sergio Ramos, ever the leader, highlighted the importance of the tournament as a global showcase. “It’s a chance to show who we are. We have to enjoy every second,” he stated. He also shared his sentimental feelings about a possible clash with Real Madrid, his former club, though he insisted the team must focus on getting through the group stage first.

The match will kick off the Group E action, which also includes River Plate and Urawa Red Diamonds. For Monterrey, the mission is clear: compete with identity, prove their worth, and proudly represent Mexican football on the world stage.