The Club World Cup has delivered record-breaking matches, stunning goals, and unexpected outcomes.
One of the most notable was former Spanish defender Sergio Ramos’ early goal for Monterrey, which earned his side a valuable draw against Champions League finalists Inter Milan.
The Monterrey vs Inter Milan game played at the Rose Bowl Stadium in Pasadena, California, was the second game in Group E; the first had seen River Plate beat Japanese side Urawa Red Diamonds 3-1.
The game started off slowly as the few chances that fell to the group favourites – Inter- were blazed over the bar.
But against the run of play, Monterrey took the lead in the 25th minute when former Real Madrid defender Ramos soared above the Inter defence to guide a header into the bottom corner of the net, sending the fans into frantic celebrations and reminding the world of his aerial prowess.
Real Madrid Icon Sergio Ramos Still Making His Mark Globally
Ramos, one of the world’s most renowned defenders known for his aggressive tackling, departed Real Madrid in 2021 after spending an incredible 16 years at the Los Blancos.
The former Spanish international has shown that age has had minimal impact on his performances, as he has consistently displayed his vision, technique and leadership in whatever club he finds himself in, showing he still has what it takes to compete at the highest level.
Ramos left Madrid after a fallout with the club hierarchy, particularly with President Florentino Perez, after a contract dispute.
While the defender requested a two-year contract, the club only offered a one-year deal with a pay cut, which led to a breakdown in communication, ultimately leading to his exit from the club.
The defender left the club with a glittering portfolio after securing 22 titles, which include four Champions Leagues, four Club World Cups, three Super Cups, five La Liga Titles, two Copa del Rey and four Spanish Super Cups.
He also departed as the second-highest-scoring defender in the club’s history, with 101 goals and 40 assists in 671 appearances.
However, his aggressive style of play also saw him collect the most yellow cards in La Liga history (172) and the second-most red cards (30) among defenders.
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A New Chapter: Ramos Bids Farewell to Madrid in Major Transfer
After his time at Madrid, he made a free transfer to the French Ligue 1 in July 2021, where he went on to play with former rival Lionel Messi at Paris Saint-Germain, signing a 2-year contract with the club and winning the league title in both seasons.
However, his first year was hampered by calf and muscle injuries as he only made 13 appearances that season.
The following year, he was fitter and played 45 games, scoring four goals and helping the team retain the title.
After his contract expired, he moved to Sevilla, his boyhood club, where his career began.
18 years after leaving the club, his move back to Seville in 2023 was welcomed with mixed reactions from sects of fans as some opposed his return due to past controversies.
However, his strong performances on the pitch quickly won them over, erasing old tensions and showcasing his wealth of experience and deep-rooted passion for the club.
Impact at Monterrey
Ramos, after spending a year at Sevilla, made another shocking transfer, crossing the Atlantic to sign for Mexican club CF Monterrey, a move he made with a vision of challenging himself and promoting the sport globally.
His presence in the Liga MX has brought the spotlight to Mexican football and has elevated the league’s international profile.
His Club World Cup goal has shown his hunger for performing on the high stage, just like his equalising goal in the 93rd minute of the Champions League Final against Atletico Madrid showed he’s the man for the big occasions.
His goal and man-of-the-match performance against Inter Milan could prove vital in his side’s quest to advance to the knockout stages.
Ramos, over the years, has proven to be a great defender.
His journey from Sevilla to Madrid to PSG, back to Sevilla, and now to Monterrey is a testament to his never-ending hunger for competition.
With 700 appearances and over 100 goals, he has carved his name into the legends of football history.
Main Photo
Credit: IMAGO / NurPhoto
Recording Date: 17.06.2025