Pride at stake as Urawa take on Monterrey, Al Ain meet Wydad

Now, with progression no longer possible, Urawa must regroup and refocus. The Japanese side will be looking to sign off with their first win of the tournament and salvage some pride after a challenging campaign

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Eliminated but not defeated in spirit, Japan's Urawa Red Diamonds will play for pride when they take on Mexico’s CF Monterrey in their final Group E fixture at the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 on Wednesday.

A 3-1 defeat to River Plate was followed by a heartbreaking 2-1 loss to Inter Milan, a result that ended Urawa’s hopes of advancing - with the Italian side scoring a late winner.

Head coach Maciej Skorza was candid after the match against the Italians, crediting his players for their tactical discipline and intensity - especially in the first half - but also lamenting the team’s lack of experience in managing key moments.

Now, with progression no longer possible, Urawa must regroup and refocus. The Japanese side will be looking to sign off with their first win of the tournament and salvage some pride after a challenging campaign.

"We are out of the tournament. Now all we can do is fight to win the last match, to get the only win of the tournament,” Skorza said.