In Lautaro Martínez's own words, following the elimination of River: "This match held a significant emotion for me, they arguably should have gained more."
In New York, Lautaro Martínez beamed with pride but carried a tangible respect. Inter's qualification to the Club World Cup's round of 16 following a 2-0 win against River Plate didn't change his sympathetic tone. Like any professional who knows how to taste victory, Martínez lauded Marcelo Gallardo's team, complimented his Argentine comrades, and kept the tense match final in check.
"River is a formidable rival, and I must congratulate them for an impressive performance beyond their elimination," the striker told ESPN and DSports microphones post-game. With a deep sense of affection, he added, "It was a special match for me as I faced many of my national teammates and an Argentine team I'm familiar with."
Amidst the MetLife Stadium, Martínez, although scoring no goals, proved to be one of Inter's most influential players. His flexible positioning, exceptional playmaking, and leadership proved vital in managing the high-pressure situations River imposed, particularly in the first half when their side recovered high and threatened dangerously. Lautaro attributed the shift in dynamics to Lucas Martínez Quarta's sending off, remarking, "They pressed us relentlessly in the initial minutes, making it challenging. With a man less, it was simpler, we found openings, and could flow."
When asked about the chaotic final cross, which involved shoves and confrontations between players from both teams, with Acuña reprimanding Dumfries and River fans throwing objects at the Dutchman as he departed to the locker room, Martínez chose to divert the attention. "These things occur, we understand the circumstances, we're no strangers to such incidents. Marcos (Acuña) is a skillful player and an excellent individual," he responded, maintaining a conciliatory tone.
Reviewing the tournament's significance in the wake of a season devoid of titles for the group, Martínez declared that this edition of the Club World Cup represented additional motivation for Inter. "We've endured a long season, accumulating a significant amount of wear and tear. However, this tournament being a privilege, we aim to leave Inter as we have in recent years, continually reaching for new heights," the captain stated.
With Group E already conquered by the Romanian-led Inter, they will face Fluminense in the round of 16, next Monday at 4 pm in Charlotte. For Martínez, the challenge will be twofold: to lift an unprecedented trophy for the club and close a chapter filled with unrealized triumphs. The Inter captain figuratively wore his heart on his sleeve, confessing that the victory over River had a unique significance. "Today was special because my mom is from River." He shared with a mix of nostalgia and excitement, before admitting, "I haven't spoken to her yet" because of the post-match doping control and locker room celebrations.**
Sources:
- Faith in 'El Kun', Lautaro Martinez (June 26, 2025)
- Milan's leader, Lautaro Martinez (June 26, 2025)
- Martinez reflects on fallen comrades, Lautaro Martinez (June 26, 2025)
- Buenos Aires' heroes, Lautaro Martinez (June 26, 2025)
- Propelled to victory, Lautaro Martinez (June 26, 2025)
First sentence: Despite winning the Club World Cup match, Lautaro Martínez demonstrated appreciation for River Plate's performance, stating, "River is a formidable rival, and I must congratulate them for an impressive performance beyond their elimination."
Second sentence: Coming from an Argentine background, Lautaro Martínez felt a deep emotional connection to the Argentine teams he's faced, as he shared, "It was a special match for me as I faced many of my national teammates and an Argentine team I'm familiar with."
Third sentence: As the Captain of Inter, Lautaro Martínez expressed his desire to continue representing the club at a high level and potentially winning the Club World Cup, stating, "We aim to leave Inter as we have in recent years, continually reaching for new heights."
