Japan Embraces Club World Cup with Cinematic Spectacle: Urawa Red Diamonds Take Center Stage

The FIFA Club World Cup is set to ignite passion across the globe, but nowhere is the excitement more palpable than in Japan. Despite having only one representative in the expanded tournament, the nation is embracing the competition with unprecedented enthusiasm, epitomized by a unique decision: broadcasting matches involving their sole participant, Urawa Red Diamonds, in cinemas across the country.

This innovative move reflects Japan's immense pride in seeing its players compete on such a globally significant stage. The Club World Cup, now featuring 32 teams and garnering massive international relevance, presents a prime opportunity for Urawa Red Diamonds to showcase Japanese football prowess. To further amplify the tournament's importance, the club has even launched an exclusive collaboration with Nike, featuring merchandise available solely during the Club World Cup. Urawa Red Diamonds, who will share Group E with Rayados de Monterrey, Inter Milan, and River Plate (their debut opponent), aims to make a strong impression.

Where to Watch Urawa Red Diamonds in Japanese Cinemas

Urawa Red Diamonds has confirmed an agreement with national cinema distributors to open select theaters for live viewings of their Club World Cup matches. Initially, this initiative will be exclusive to Saitama, the club's home city, and Tokyo. However, if their opening match garners a positive reception, there are plans to extend these special screenings to cinemas in other prefectures across Japan for their remaining two group stage fixtures.

The first match for Urawa Red Diamonds is scheduled for Tuesday, June 17, at 12:00 PM local time against River Plate at Lumen Field in Seattle. For fans in Latin America, the match will be available for free on DAZN.

Key Facts About Urawa Red Diamonds

Urawa Red Diamonds boasts an impressive pedigree, particularly in Asia. The club has secured three AFC Champions League titles, solidifying its status as a continental powerhouse. Domestically, they have lifted five local titles.

Despite their last league title coming in 2006, Urawa consistently leads national stadium attendance rankings, underlining their reputation as one of Japan's most widely supported clubs.

Among their key players, Swedish midfielder Samuel Gustafson stands out. Joining in 2024, Gustafson has also frequently represented his national team during his 18 months at the club. In attack, Japanese forward Ryoma Watanabe has been a revelation, leading the team in scoring during the first half of 2025 with six goals in 14 appearances.

Ahead of their journey to the United States, Polish coach Maciej Skorza of Urawa Red Diamonds expressed his team's primary objective: to truly enjoy the experience in the United States. Skorza acknowledged the superior talent of their rivals, who boast stars like Sergio Ramos, Franco Mastantuono, and Lautaro Martínez. He emphasized that the key for the Japanese side will lie in focusing on the fine details of each match.

As the Club World Cup kicks off, Japan's unique cinematic celebration and Urawa Red Diamonds' determined spirit promise to add a vibrant and distinct flavor to the global tournament.