Valentin Carboni scored a dramatic stoppage-time winner as Inter Milan secured a 2-1 comeback victory over Urawa Red Diamonds on Saturday, eliminating the Japanese side from the Club World Cup.
Urawa Reds took an early lead through Ryoma Watanabe in the 11th minute at Lumen Field, Seattle. The goal came after Takuro Kaneko made a surging run down the right and delivered a precise low cross, which Watanabe swept in with a first-time finish.
Inter, runners-up in the UEFA Champions League, responded with pressure throughout the match, but struggled to find the breakthrough. Lautaro Martinez, who had scored in their previous 1-1 draw against Monterrey, equalised in the 78th minute with a spectacular overhead kick from a Nicolò Barella corner.
With the game heading toward a draw, Carboni—making his first appearance for Inter in over two years—emerged as the hero in the 92nd minute. The 20-year-old Argentine, who recently recovered from a knee injury, calmly slotted home after Petar Sucic’s deflected shot fell kindly into his path inside the box.
The victory puts Cristian Chivu’s side in a strong position to qualify for the round of 16, while Urawa Reds exit the tournament following consecutive defeats, including a 3-1 loss to River Plate in their opener.
Backed by a passionate fan base and crowned AFC Champions League winners in 2023, the Japanese side had hoped to make a deeper run. However, Inter’s resilience and clinical finishing ultimately ended their campaign.
The match showcased high-tempo football and strong individual performances, with Inter’s composure proving decisive in the closing moments.