Inter Milan vs Urawa Reds

In a crucial Group E matchup at the Club World Cup in Seattle this Saturday, Inter Milan and Urawa Red Diamonds will battle for their first victory of the tournament.

Both teams are desperate for points after Inter drew 1-1 with Monterrey and Urawa fell to River Plate in their opening matches, making this weekend’s clash pivotal.

Inter, still reeling from a historic European final loss, began their campaign at the Rose Bowl under new leadership. The Serie A and Champions League runners-up trailed after Monterrey’s veteran captain Sergio Ramos scored a powerful header, but Inter’s skipper Lautaro Martinez equalized just before halftime. Despite dominating with eight shots in the second half, Inter couldn’t find a winner, leaving new manager Cristian Chivu with just a point.

Chivu, who replaced Simone Inzaghi after his departure to Al Hilal following a 5-0 defeat to Paris Saint-Germain, brings experience from coaching Inter’s youth team and a brief but successful stint at Parma. As a former Inter defender, he’s tasked with guiding the Nerazzurri, two-time Intercontinental Cup champions in the 1960s, deep into the tournament to avoid an early exit.

A loss to Urawa Red Diamonds could jeopardize their chances, especially with a tough match against River Plate looming next week at Lumen Field.

Urawa, meanwhile, entered the tournament in shaky form, having won only two of their last seven games, sitting fourth in the J1 League. As 2022 AFC Champions League winners—their third Asian title—they faced a strong River Plate side in their opener. Despite a penalty from Yusuke Matsuo sparking hope early in the second half, Urawa couldn’t overcome a 3-1 defeat to the South American giants.

To keep their third Club World Cup campaign alive and avoid elimination at the group stage, manager Maciej Skorza’s squad needs at least a draw against Inter, as only the top two teams advance. Urawa’s passionate fans, known for their vibrant support, were out in force against River Plate and will be crucial again in Seattle.

With a history of losses to European teams in the Club World Cup—falling to AC Milan in 2007 and Manchester City two years ago—Urawa face an uphill battle against the Italian powerhouse.