Sergio Ramos trained normally on Friday with the rest of the squad and is set to start against River Plate
Article continues below
Article continues below
Article continues below
Rayados currently have one pointRiver Plate lead the group with three pointsThe match will be played at the Rose Bowl in Los AngelesWatch every FIFA Club World Cup game free on DAZNStream nowAFPWHAT HAPPENED?
The stakes are high this Saturday as Monterrey and River Plate battle for control of Group A in Matchday 2 of the Club World Cup. With just three teams in the group, the result will likely determine who advances and who goes home.
River Plate arrive with momentum after a convincing 3-1 win over Urawa Reds in their opening match, while Monterrey were held to a 1-1 draw by Inter Milan. A win for the Argentine side would seal their place in the next round. For Monterrey, a victory would tighten the group and set up a dramatic final matchday.
Speaking at Friday’s press conference, head coach Domenec Torrent previewed the crucial match, calling it more challenging than their opener.
“This game will be tougher than the one against Inter,” said Torrent. “Some European teams are just starting their preseason, so there's a lack of familiarity with clubs like ours. But we shouldn’t overlook North and South American teams – football is more balanced than ever. Welcome to the Club World Cup.”
AdvertisementAFPTHE BIGGER PICTURE
The Spaniard, who took over Monterrey just recently, will be coaching his third game with the team on Saturday. His official debut came against Inter, though he also led the squad in a friendly prior to the tournament.
“I’m happy with the group,” Torrent added. “We’re used to high-stakes games. As a new coaching staff, it was important to start strong and earn the players’ trust – and I think we’ve done that.”
AFPWHAT RAYADOS' PLAYERS SAID
Monterrey midfielder Jorge Rodríguez also emphasized the significance of the upcoming match.
“It’s a crucial game,” he said. “We’re coming in strong after the Inter match. We know this will be intense, and we need to be fully focused. At this level, you can’t afford to give anything away.”
Forward Germán Berterame echoed that confidence. “Our mentality is to win,” he said. “We’re a strong team, and we’re committed to executing the game plan. We’re especially dangerous from midfield forward, and that’s something River will have to deal with.”
The match will take place at the iconic Rose Bowl in Pasadena, Calif. where both teams will be fighting not just for three points, but for survival.
Getty Images SportDID YOU KNOW?
Sergio Ramos trained normally on Friday with the rest of the squad, easing concerns after he was unable to complete Thursday’s session. The Spanish defender, who scored in Monterrey’s 1-1 draw with Inter Milan, is now expected to start and lead the team in Saturday’s crucial match against River Plate.