🌎 The Club World Cup guide to...River Plate | OneFootball

Our guide to all 32 clubs participating at the FIFA Club World Cup continues.

Today we're looking at...River Plate.

How did they qualify for the Club World Cup?

River Plate secured their place in the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup by accumulating sufficient points in CONMEBOL competitions between 2021 and 2024. A pivotal 2-0 victory over Club Libertad in the 2024 Copa Libertadores ensured their qualification.

History at the Club World Cup

📸 Atsushi Tomura - 2015 Getty Images

River Plate have participated in the Club World Cup twice. In 2015, they reached the final but were defeated 3-0 by Barcelona. In 2018, after winning the Copa Libertadores, they entered the tournament but were eliminated in the semi-finals by Al Ain FC, eventually securing third place.

How did they perform in the 2024/25 season?

Marcelo Gallardo's men have been a little underwhelming domestically this year, getting knocked out at the quarter-final stage of the Apertura. It's been smoother-sailing in the Copa Libertadores however with the capital club topping their group.

Who is the coach?

📸 Marcelo Endelli - 2022 Getty Images

Marcelo Gallardo returned to River Plate as head coach in August 2024, signing a contract until December 2025. Gallardo is the most successful manager in the club's history, having previously led the team from 2014 to 2022, during which he secured multiple domestic and international titles, including two Copa Libertadores.

Who is their star player?

Seventeen-year-old midfielder Franco Mastantuono has emerged as River Plate's standout player in 2025. The teenage starlet has become a key figure in the team's midfield, drawing comparisons to Lionel Messi and Lamine Yamal.

His performances have attracted interest from Real Madrid, whom he will join after the Club World Cup in a deal worth a reported €45m.

Expected performance at the Club World Cup

Drawn in Group E alongside Urawa Red Diamonds, Monterrey and Inter, the Argentine giants will fancy their chances of making progress to the knockout rounds.

📸 Hernan Cortez - 2024 Getty Images