Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the FIFA Club World Cup match.
River Plate come into this clash buoyed by a convincing victory over Urawa Red Diamonds (3:0), and they now have a promising chance to build on that success and cement their place at the top. Monterrey, meanwhile, are expected to offer serious resistance despite a challenging opening match against Inter Milan.
River Plate
River Plate scored three goals from just five shots on target in their encounter with Urawa Red Diamonds. They are unbeaten in 18 consecutive matches in regulation time. Additionally, the Argentinians have found the net in 11 straight games and, with 13 goals in the Copa Libertadores, rank among the top three attacking teams in the tournament. Defensive solidity, however, remains an issue, with just one clean sheet in their last nine outings.
Monterrey
Monterrey produced a composed display against Inter Milan, taking the lead from a corner kick but ultimately unable to hold on for the win (1:1). Despite the outcome, the team showed clinical edge: they generated 1.08 xG and converted their only shot on target. The Mexicans have now scored in 15 consecutive matches. Their squad features the former Sevilla FC players Óliver Torres, Jesús Corona, and Lucas Ocampos, as well as veteran Sergio Ramos, who scored their only goal in the tournament so far. Defensively, however, concerns remain — Monterrey have conceded in 12 of their last 15 games.
River Plate vs Monterrey Prediction
Both squads are packed with experience and former European talent. Given their respective defensive frailties, goals at both ends seem a strong possibility.
