Raphael Durand
Dailysports's expert
The opening match of the Club World Cup group stage between Mexican side Monterrey and Italy's Inter Milan will take place on Wednesday in Pasadena. Here’s a betting tip for the outcome of this showdown with an attractive odds offer.
Match preview
Monterrey enters the Club World Cup as clear underdogs, yet they boast an impressive track record and strong ambitions. Under the guidance of Domenec Torrent, the team has displayed mature football: the Spanish coach, formerly Pep Guardiola’s assistant, has implemented a possession-based style with a focus on controlling the tempo. In their last five matches, Los Rayados have claimed three victories and suffered two defeats, showcasing both resilience and defensive vulnerability.
Just before the tournament, the Mexicans fell 1-2 to Toluca, but had previously secured confident wins on the domestic stage. Monterrey’s main weapon is their balance between technically gifted wingers and a compact midfield capable of withstanding pressure and launching attacks. Thanks to their CONCACAF Champions League triumph, the club has rightfully earned a shot on the global stage and is determined not to be just making up the numbers.
Inter arrive at the tournament as favorites — Italian champions and Champions League finalists, boasting a star-studded squad and the ambition to fight for the trophy. The Nerazzurri play a flexible, versatile style of football, adapting their tactics to each opponent. Their last five matches brought three wins, a draw, and a shocking 0-5 defeat to PSG, a result that stung the team’s pride.
Nevertheless, that heavy loss could serve as a timely wake-up call, especially ahead of this high-stakes debut on a new stage. The new head coach has experienced stars and promising youngsters at his disposal, all within a well-drilled system. Inter have come to the USA to win, and the game against Monterrey is the perfect opportunity to start strong and put any doubts about their form to rest.
Probable lineups
- Monterrey: Cárdenas, Aguirre, Medina, Leone, Arteaga, Rodriguez, Fimbres, Canales, Torres, Ocampos, Berterame
- Inter: Sommer, Bisseck, Bastoni, Acerbi, Dimarco, Çalhanoğlu, Barella, Mkhitaryan, Dumfries, Martínez, Thuram
Match facts and head-to-head
- This is the first-ever meeting between Inter and Monterrey
- Inter lost their last match by a heavy 0-5 scoreline against PSG
- Monterrey qualified for the tournament as CONCACAF Champions League winners
Prediction
A bet on Inter to win looks justified — the squad depth, experience, and motivation should be decisive. However, Monterrey’s character suggests they could put up a fight and may even find the net. Our pick: Inter to win at odds of 1.60.
