River Plate starts strong with confident win over Urawa

River Plate kicked off their 2025 FIFA Club World Cup campaign in dominant fashion, defeating Urawa Red Diamonds 3–1 in Seattle. Goals from Facundo Colidio, Sebastián Driussi, and Maximiliano Meza gave the Argentine side a strong start in Group E. Although Urawa managed a penalty goal, River controlled the pace and walked away with three important points.

The match began with River showing intent, and they got their reward in the 12th minute. Marcos Acuña whipped in a sharp cross from the left, and Facundo Colidio met it with a powerful header at the near post to open the scoring. It was the early breakthrough River needed to take control of the match and put Urawa on the back foot.

The second half brought more pressure from the Argentinians. Just minutes after the restart, a defensive error from Urawa allowed Sebastián Driussi to slot home River‘s second goal of the night. But a lapse in concentration saw River give away a penalty shortly after: Acuña brought down a Urawa attacker in the box, and Yusuke Matsuo converted from the spot to make it 2–1.

Despite the setback, River never lost control. In the 73rd minute, another set-piece delivered results: Acuña’s corner found Maximiliano Meza, who headed home to restore the two-goal cushion. Urawa had no answer, and River coasted through the final stretch of the match.

After the final whistle, coach Marcelo Gallardo praised the team’s clinical finishing but criticized the defensive lapse that led to the penalty. He also expressed concern over Driussi, who limped off with a knock. Still, with three points in the bag and strong performances across the pitch, River started their World Cup journey on solid ground.