Meza extends the lead for El Millonario!

Matsuo pulls one back from the penalty spot!

Another header goal for River Plate!

Great finish by Colidio to put River Plate ahead!

River Plate begin their 2025 FIFA Club World Cup campaign this Tuesday, June 17, with a crucial Group E clash against Urawa Red Diamonds. The match, set in Seattle, Washington, will be vital for both teams aiming to gain early momentum in a highly competitive group.

Date, Time, and Venue in the U.S.

• Date: Tuesday, June 17, 2025
• Stadium: Lumen Field, Seattle, Washington
• Kick-off Time: 3:00 PM ET / 12:00 PM PT

Group E also features Inter Milan and Monterrey, making a strong start essential for both River and Urawa.

Context and Motivation

River Plate

After an up-and-down domestic season, River arrive with a roster filled with talent and experience. Key figures include Franco Armani, Gonzalo Montiel, Marcos Acuña, Enzo Pérez, and Sebastián Driussi. But all eyes will be on Franco Mastantuono, the 17-year-old prodigy who has already signed with Real Madrid but will remain with River through the tournament.

Urawa Red Diamonds

The Japanese club, Asian champions in 2022, are competing in their third Club World Cup. Though their current form has been inconsistent, defenders like Marius Høibråten and attacker Ryōma Watanabe bring the quality and composure to challenge any opponent.

Tactical Keys to the Match

• River Plate will look to dominate possession through the midfield, relying on the verticality of Driussi and Colidio, and the leadership of Pérez and Castaño.
• Urawa Red Diamonds could rely on defensive structure and quick transitions, aiming to strike on the counter with pace and precision.
• The potential Club World Cup debut of Mastantuono adds extra intrigue, as his creativity could be a difference-maker.

With Inter Milan and Monterrey waiting in the wings, this opener is critical.

A win would place River Plate in a strong position for the knockout stage, while Urawa aim to pull off an early upset and establish themselves as contenders in one of the tournament’s toughest groups.