Inter Milan produced a stunning late comeback to defeat Urawa Red Diamonds 2-1 in a tense FIFA Club World Cup group clash in Seattle.
The Italian giants appeared on the brink of a shock exit after trailing for over an hour but found inspiration when it mattered most to revive their tournament dreams.
Urawa struck early through Ryoma Watanabe’s precise finish in the 11th minute. Despite Inter dominating possession throughout the first half, they failed to convert their chances.
Lautaro Martinez struck the crossbar with a header, while Henrikh Mkhitaryan and Kristjan Asllani wasted promising opportunities. Inter’s wastefulness kept Urawa’s hopes alive, as the Japanese side defended with incredible discipline. They also threatened dangerously on the counter.
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Martinez magic turns the tide for Inter
However, Urawa’s resistance could only last so long. In the 77th minute, Inter captain Martinez pulled off an acrobatic overhead kick from a corner to break the Japanese side’s brave defence.
The goal sparked new life into Inter’s attack, which had looked sluggish and uninspired for most of the game.
Still, Urawa held firm, threatening on the break through Watanabe and Takuro Kaneko. But the breakthrough came deep into stoppage time when 20-year-old substitute Valentin Carboni reacted quickest to a loose ball in the box to net the winner. His first-ever Inter goal was followed by wild celebrations from players and fans alike.
Lautaro Martínez’s 78th-minute goal vs. Urawa Red Diamonds was Inter’s first shot on target on their 19th attempt of the match.
While Urawa bowed out of the competition with heads held high, Inter climbed to the top of Group E with four points from two matches.
Their dreams of reaching the last 16 remain alive, with a decisive clash against River Plate looming. Meanwhile, Urawa’s final group match against Monterrey offers little more than pride to play for.
Urawa’s brave effort showcased the danger posed by tournament outsiders, but in the end, quality and patience prevailed. Inter will now look to build on this dramatic win and secure their place in the knockout stages.
Tags: #InterUrawa, #FIFACWC, Urawa Red Diamonds, Inter Milan, #FIFAClubWorldCup, Seattle, Ryoma Watanabe, Henrikh Mkhitaryan, Lautaro Martinez, Valentin Carboni, Takuro Kaneko, #ForzaInter.
