Inter drew 1-1 with Monterrey in their opening Group E match at the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, with Cristian Chivu taking charge of the Nerazzurri for the first time.

Veteran defender Sergio Ramos gave Monterrey the lead in the 25th minute, rising above Alessandro Bastoni to head in a corner from Oliver Torres. Inter responded just before halftime as Lautaro Martinez finished a well-worked free-kick routine, converting a cross from Carlos Augusto.

Despite dominating possession, Inter struggled to break down the Mexican side's defence, led by Ramos and goalkeeper Esteban Andrada. Monterrey had a late chance to win, but Sergio Canales' long-range effort hit the post. The match, played in the heat at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, California with a visibly sparse crowd, marked the competitive debut for both teams' new managers—Cristian Chivu for Inter and Domenec Torrent for Monterrey.

Inter will now face Urawa Red Diamonds in Seattle on June 21, aiming to secure a win to boost their chances of advancing to the knockout stage.