In the much-anticipated match in Group E, Mexico's representative Monterrey entered the match with confidence against Inter Milan, the UEFA Champions League runner-up. Despite being rated lower in terms of squad quality, Monterrey still created a balanced and fair match against the Serie A representative.
Nicolo Barella dribbles through the Monterrey defense
The turning point came in the 25th minute, from a corner kick on the right wing, Sergio Ramos - former Real Madrid captain - jumped high and powerfully headed the ball, opening the score for Monterrey. This was the second goal scored by the Spanish midfielder since moving to play in the Mexican National Championship.
Sergio Ramos opens the scoring for Monterrey
It didn't take long for Inter Milan to get the game back on track. In the 42nd minute, after a combination in the middle, full-back Carlos Augusto sent a favorable pass for Lautaro Martínez to finish accurately into the far corner, scoring the equalizer 1-1. This was the Inter captain's third goal in the last 4 matches in all competitions.
Lautaro Martinez leveled the score 1-1 for Inter Milan
The second half saw a tense game as Inter Milan took the initiative to control the ball (59% possession) but failed to create many clear-cut chances. Meanwhile, Monterrey played solidly, waiting for gaps in the opponent's defense to counterattack. Both teams had a few more chances, but goalkeepers Yann Sommer (Inter) and Esteban Andrada (Monterrey) played excellently to keep the score the same.
Despite having 11 shots, Inter Milan were unable to penetrate the opponent's net again. The midfield with Mkhitaryan, Asllani and Barella did not show their usual technical dominance. Meanwhile, new head coach Cristian Chivu also tried out a few new names such as Petar Sucic and Luis Henrique, but they did not bring clear results.
New head coach Cristian Chivu's debut with Inter Milan is not really complete
On the other side of the front line, Monterrey under the guidance of coach Domènec Torrent showed a disciplined and cohesive style of play. In addition to Ramos, players like Sergio Canales and Lucas Ocampos also left their mark with their technique and battle experience.
The draw means both teams have one point after the first round. Inter Milan are currently second in Group E behind River Plate, who beat Urawa Red Diamonds 2-0 in their previous match. Monterrey will face Urawa in the next round on June 25, while Inter will face River Plate in a match that could decide their place in the next round.
Fierce dispute
Although they did not win all 3 points, Inter Milan still showed their mettle and international experience. Meanwhile, Monterrey sent a strong message that they did not come to this tournament just to learn.
Defeating Ulsan Hyundai (Korea) with a score of 1-0 in the opening match, Mamelodi Sundowns FC (South Africa) not only won the top spot in Group F but also pocketed 2 million USD in prize money for this victory. Mamelodi Sundowns FC is the first African representative to win the opening match of the FIFA Club World Cup, after Al Ahly drew 0-0 with Inter Miami and Esperance de Tunis was defeated by Flamengo with a score of 0-2.
Source: https://nld.com.vn/sergio-ramos-lap-cong-monterrey-chia-diem-tiec-nuoi-voi-inter-milan-196250618104056404.htm
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