Real Madrid's Rising Star Franco Mastantuono Dazzles in River Plate's Club World Cup Debut
Real Madrid's latest acquisition Franco Mastantuono showcased brilliant displays during River Plate's opening FIFA Club World Cup encounter.
Mastantuono, considered among the globe's most promising young prospects, secured a six-year contract with Real Madrid during the summer transfer window. The Spanish giants invested a combined €63.2 million ($72.6 million) to acquire the 17-year-old sensation, marking Argentina's record-breaking transfer deal.
Although the transfer has been finalized, Mastantuono continues to feature for River Plate in the United States this summer. The young Argentine will remain with his current club until reaching 18 years of age in August, allowing him to participate in one last competition with his childhood team.
Mastantuono and River Plate began their FIFA Club World Cup journey facing Urawa Red Diamonds at Lumen Field. The youngster earned a starting position on the right flank for his 62nd match with the Argentine side and immediately demonstrated his left-footed prowess.
Following an early foul that earned his team a free kick within the opening two minutes, Mastantuono took responsibility for the 30-yard set piece. His precise delivery curved into the penalty box, though none of his teammates managed to connect with the cross.
Nevertheless, the free kick served as a warning to Urawa Red Diamonds, who found it difficult to contain River Plate's increasing dominance along the right side. Marcelo Gallardo's squad needed just 12 minutes to score the opener, with Mastantuono initiating the attacking sequence.
The 17-year-old received a bouncing ball at midfield, controlling it with his chest before weaving past two opposing players in red jerseys, moving centrally as he advanced. Mastantuono maintained his forward momentum before delivering an excellent pass to Marcos Acuña on the left wing, who provided a cross into the box. Facundo Colidio converted the header to give River Plate a 1–0 advantage.
While Mastantuono won't receive credit on the scoresheet, his contribution in the buildup play enabled his team to establish the early advantage.
Throughout the match, the Argentine consistently challenged defenders, seemingly inviting them to engage in one-on-one battles. He navigated past opponents with apparent ease, though his tendency to cut inside onto his preferred left foot occasionally allowed Urawa Red Diamonds to regain possession from the skillful attacker.
An encouraging aspect for Real Madrid was Mastantuono's willingness to retreat deeper to collect the ball. The Argentina international frequently dropped into his own half to connect with teammates and initiate River Plate's offensive movements.
Mastantuono refused to remain static waiting for service, and when necessary, he moved centrally to influence the game with assurance. Indeed, he appeared more effective operating as a playmaker than stationed on the right wing.
Urawa Red Diamonds eventually assigned two defenders to shadow Mastantuono, reducing his influence as the match progressed. His first genuine scoring chance in the second period arrived in the 82nd minute, but his close-range header sailed wide of the target.
Mastantuono's subdued finish to the contest slightly overshadowed his exceptional early showing, yet he concluded the game leading River Plate in successful dribbles (3) and duels won (10) during their 3–1 triumph.
Real Madrid supporters should feel encouraged by Mastantuono's performance, particularly considering the club's recent struggles with creativity and offensive output on the right side. Having a player of Mastantuono's caliber combining with Trent Alexander-Arnold on the right flank will restore Real Madrid as one of Europe's most formidable attacking forces.
Mastantuono will return to action for River Plate on Saturday, June 21, when they face Sergio Ramos and Monterrey.