River Plate take on the visitors Monterrey in the round 2 match of FIFA Club World Cup.The match will be played on Sunday, June 22nd at Rose Bowl (Pasadena, CA).
River Plate undoubtedly remain a historic football powerhouse in Argentina and across South America. While 2023 was a strong year, bringing home the Diego Maradona Trophy, the national Super Cup, and most importantly, the Primera División title, the following season was far less successful — River finished only fifth in the overall standings, even after the return of the previously successful Marcelo Gallardo as head coach. This year, they topped their Copa Libertadores group with 12 points, but again fell short in the Apertura: second place in their group and an eventual penalty shootout loss to Platense, who went on to unexpectedly win the tournament. On their Club World Cup debut, River overcame Urawa Red Diamonds with a solid 3-1 win despite conceding. The team’s form has been inconsistent — they struggle for rhythm domestically but often raise their level on the continental stage. Gallardo's side will be keen to build momentum through this tournament to regain confidence.
| 2 x £10 Free Bet | Review | |||
| 100$-500$ for No Lose Free Bets | Review | |||
| 100% up to £200 | Review | |||
| Not available | Review |
Monterrey arrived at the tournament in low spirits. The Rayados are a storied club, even if not the most decorated: their last league title, the 2019 Apertura, was only the fifth in club history. That said, they are a true force in the CONCACAF Champions League, having lifted the trophy five times, most recently in 2021. Since then, success has been limited — although they reached the Apertura final last season, they fell short in the decisive match. The Clausura campaign was disappointing: only 7th place in the regular phase and elimination in the quarterfinals of the playoffs. That prompted the board to sack Martín Demichelis and appoint experienced Spaniard Domènec Torrent. His debut came in the Club World Cup opener against Inter, where Monterrey battled to a surprising 1-1 draw. The Mexican side looked more organized under Torrent, with sharper pressing and better balance across the pitch. Their ability to contain an attack-minded Inter shows they can punch above their weight when tactically disciplined.
In 2023, River Plate narrowly edged Monterrey in a friendly match. A year later, another exhibition ended in a 1-1 draw. The Argentine side is considered the stronger team overall — the value lies in backing them to win with a draw-no-bet option at odds of 2.17.
Prediction for the match: River Plate to win with 0.0 handicap.
