Chivu’s Inter era begins with frustration

Inter Milan’s quest for redemption got off to a rocky start as they were held to a 1-1 draw by Mexico’s C.F. Monterrey in their 2025 FIFA Club World Cup Group E opener at the Rose Bowl Stadium on Wednesday, 18 June.

Just weeks after their humbling 5-0 Champions League final defeat to Paris Saint-Germain, the Italian giants struggled to impose themselves in new manager Cristian Chivu’s first game in charge.

Instead, it was Monterrey who struck first, with veteran defender Sergio Ramos – the former Real Madrid star – powering in a 25th-minute header to stun the Nerazzurri.

But Inter responded before half-time, as captain Lautaro Martínez tapped in Carlos Augusto’s cross following a slick set-piece move in the 42nd minute.

The Argentine thought he had completed the turnaround in the 68th minute, only for his effort to be ruled out for offside.

Both sides came close late on, with Martínez also picking up a late yellow card, but neither could find a winner.

Despite dominating 62% possession, Inter managed just two shots on target, while Monterrey’s only effort on goal was Ramos’ opener.

A new era under Chivu – but familiar struggles

Chivu, taking charge for the first time since replacing Simone Inzaghi, made just seven changes from the side that started in Munich.

Young striker Sebastiano Esposito, making his first Inter appearance since 2020 after seven loan spells, was replaced early in the second half by the returning Marcus Thuram, who is still working his way back to full fitness.

While Inter showed flashes of their usual fluency, their inability to convert dominance into goals will be a concern. Monterrey, meanwhile, proved resilient, with Ramos’ experience proving decisive at both ends.

What’s next for Inter?

With River Plate and Japan’s Urawa Red Diamonds also in Group E, both Inter and Monterrey remain well-placed to progress.

But the Italians must quickly rediscover their cutting edge if they are to shake off the lingering disappointment of their Champions League collapse.

Inter’s next match is against Urawa Red Diamonds on Saturday, June 21, while Monterrey takes on River Plate on Sunday, 22 June.