Inter Milan kicked off their FIFA Club World Cup campaign with a 1-1 draw against Mexico’s Monterrey at the Rose Bowl Stadium in Pasadena, California. Fresh off their UEFA Champions League final defeat, the Nerazzurri showed flashes of promise under new coach Cristian Chivu.
Monterrey struck first when veteran Sergio Ramos rose to meet a pinpoint cross, heading home a stunning opener that sent a Monterrey-favouring crowd into raptures for coach Domenec Torrent’s debut on the bench.
Inter responded in style. In the 42nd minute, a world-class set-piece routine saw Carlos Augusto deliver the perfect service for Lautaro Martinez, who tapped in to level. Despite controlling nearly 62% possession, Inter couldn’t find a winner, while Monterrey managed just one shot on target all match.
The second half brought late drama. Martinez thought he had sealed a comeback in the 68th minute, only for an offside flag to rule it out. Both sides narrowly missed late chances, and Martinez picked up a yellow card in stoppage time to cap an intense evening.
Chivu reshaped his lineup, handing a first start of the season to Sebastiano Esposito after seven loan spells and introducing Marcus Thuram early in the second half. As the tournament unfolds, Inter will look to turn possession into goals, while Monterrey’s defensive grit under Ramos could see them emerge as dark horses.
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Inter Milan held to 1-1 draw by Mexico's Monterrey at Club World Cup
cgtn.com
