Inter Milan and River Plate will face off at Lumen Field in Seattle on Wednesday evening in a crucial Group E match that will determine the team advancing to the Club World Cup round of 16.
Both teams are undefeated in the tournament so far. Inter started with a 1-1 draw against Monterrey and then secured a 2-1 comeback victory against Urawa Reds in their last game in Seattle.
Meanwhile, River Plate began with a 3-1 win over a J-League team, followed by a goalless draw against Monterrey where they ended the game with 10 players.
Currently, River Plate lead the group on goal difference, meaning a draw would be sufficient for them to progress regardless of the outcome in Monterrey's match. On the other hand, Inter Milan cannot be certain that a draw will be enough for them to advance, as a significant win for Monterrey could see them leapfrog Inter into second place.
Team news
Inter is expected to make some changes from their previous lineup against Urawa Reds. Denzel Dumfries may return from injury but is likely to start on the bench. Federico Dimarco is anticipated to start on the left, with Nicolo Barella, Henrikh Mkhitaryan, and Kristjan Asllani in midfield.
There could be a chance for Marcus Thuram to partner with Lautaro Martinez in the attack. However, Yann Bisseck, Benjamin Pavard, and Piotr Zielinski are still sidelined due to injuries.
For River Plate, Kevin Castano is suspended, along with Enzo Perez and Giuliano Galoppo. Coach Marcelo Gallardo might opt for Rodrigo Aliendro, Santiago Simon, or Mathias Kranevitter in midfield, or consider a formation change with five defenders.
Sebastian Driussi will miss the rest of the tournament due to an ankle injury sustained in the match against Urawa Reds.
The stats
River Plate has been unbeaten in their last 20 matches in all competitions.
In eight of River Plate's last 10 matches, both teams have scored goals.
On average, River Plate's games in the Club World Cup have seen 17 fouls, while Inter's matches average 10 fouls per game.
Prediction
Given the importance of qualifying for the knockout stages, it is likely that both teams will prioritize structure and discipline over taking risks for a win.
River Plate only need a draw to progress, while Inter will be keeping an eye on the Monterrey match which starts at the same time.
The game might start cautiously, and the outcome could be determined by which team handles pressure better when under attack.
Similar to their previous matches in the tournament, scoring opportunities might be limited again.
The condition of the Lumen Field pitch, overlaid with turf, could add an unpredictable element to the match and make it a tense affair for both teams.