Urawa Red Diamonds aim to secure a first victory in Group E of the FIFA Club World Cup at the Rose Bowl Stadium in Pasadena on June 26th, 2025, at 02:00 GMT, when they take on Mexican side Monterrey. The match has more significance for the Mexicans, who sit in third position as they will keep their fingers crossed for a loss for either Inter Milan or River Plate in the other final match in Group E to qualify for the knockout stages of the competition.
Urawa, the sole Japanese representative, qualified as the 2022 AFC Champions League winners, as was covered in our football facts report three years ago. Meanwhile, Monterrey, one of four CONCACAF teams, earned their spot as the 2021 CONCACAF Champions League champions and are looking to make a mark in their third group stage match following a 0-0 draw with River Plate.
Match Preview
The Japanese club, known for their three AFC Champions League titles (2007, 2017, 2022), have been preparing in Portland, USA, adapting to warm conditions and jet lag. Their domestic J1 League campaign sees them sixth with 26 goals scored and 20 conceded in 21 matches, indicating a balanced but not impenetrable squad.
Monterrey, or Rayados, have been a dominant force in Mexican football, with five CONCACAF Champions League titles, including their 2021 triumph. Their group stage fixtures against Inter Milan and River Plate have tested their mettle, but their attacking prowess, led by key players such as German Berterame, makes them a dangerous opponent. Posts on X suggest Monterrey fans are optimistic, viewing Urawa as their “easiest” group opponent, though such confidence may be tested.
Urawa have a strong continental pedigree but lack recent global tournament success, with their best Club World Cup finish being third in 2007. They’ve struggled defensively in high-stakes matches, conceding in most of their recent competitive outings. Monterrey, meanwhile, have been inconsistent away from home in international competitions, winning only once in their last four away Club World Cup matches.
Head-to-head, this is the first meeting between the two clubs, adding an element of unpredictability. Urawa’s high-pressing style could exploit Monterrey’s occasional defensive lapses, but the Mexican side’s physicality and quick transitions may pose problems for the Reds’ backline.
Urawa’s form in the J1 League shows nine wins, seven draws, and five losses, with six clean sheets. Monterrey’s Liga MX Apertura campaign has been solid, though specific recent form is harder to pin down due to the tournament’s timing. Both teams are likely to approach this match cautiously, knowing a win could be pivotal for knockout stage qualification.
The Rose Bowl, hosting its sixth match of the tournament, offers a neutral venue, though Monterrey may benefit from a slight “home” advantage given the proximity to Mexico and the expected fan support.
Urawa Red Diamonds FIFA Club World Cup form:
- River Plate: 1-3 (L) 17/06/2025
- Inter Milan: 1-2 (L) 21/06/2025
Urawa Red Diamonds form (all competitions):
- W (H) 2-1 against Yokohama (J1L)
- D (H) 0-0 against Cerezo (J1L)
- L (A) 1-2 against Nagoya (J1L)
- D (A) 2-2 against Kawasaki (J1L)
- W (H) 3-2 against Tokyo (J1L)
Monterrey FIFA Club World Cup form:
- Inter Milan: 1-1 (D) 18/06/2025
- River Plate: 0-0 (D) 22/06/2025
Monterrey form (all competitions):
- L (A) 1-2 against Toluca (Liga MX) 11/05/25
- W (H) 3-2 against Toluca (Liga MX) 08/05/25
- W (H) 2-0 against Pumas (Liga MX) 05/05/25
- L (H) 1-2 against Pachuca (Liga MX) 28/04/25
- W (A) 2-0 against Leon (Liga MX) 21/04/25
Team News
Urawa Red Diamonds: Manager Maciej Skorża is likely to rely on players like forward Yuzuki Matsuo and winger Ryoma Watanabe to drive the attack. Defensively, captain Marius Hoibraten will be crucial in organising the backline, potentially featuring Danilo Boza and Hirokazu Ishihara. Goalkeeper Shusaku Nishikawa, a veteran of Urawa’s 2022 AFC triumph, is expected to start. No major injuries have been reported, though fatigue from travel and the tight schedule could influence rotations.
Monterrey: Coach Fernando Ortiz may field a strong XI, with striker German Berterame leading the line, supported by experienced wingers Lucas Ocampos and Jesus Corona. Midfielders Luis Jorge Rodriguez and Nelson Deossa provide stability, while Sergio Ramos and Stefan Medina are likely to anchor the defence. Goalkeeper Esteban Andrada’s experience will be vital. Monterrey have a deep squad, but minor knocks from earlier group matches could see tactical adjustments.
Urawa possible starting lineup:
Nishikawa; Naganuma, Hoibraten, Danilo Boza, Ishihara; Gustafsson, Yasui; Watanabe, Matheus Savio, Kaneko; Matsuo
Monterrey possible starting lineup:
Andrada; Arteaga, Ramos, Medina, Aguirre; Rodriguez, Deossa; Ocampos, Canales, Corona; Berterame
We Say: Urawa Red Diamonds 1-2 Monterrey
Urawa’s disciplined approach and high work rate make them a threat, but Monterrey’s experience in international competitions and attacking depth should give them the edge. Expect a tight contest, with Monterrey capitalising on set pieces or counter-attacks to secure a narrow victory.
