Fluminense is the champion of the Club World Cup! They won 2-0 against Inter Milan and reached the quarterfinals. The brutal match conditions, sweltering heat, were something both teams had to withstand. This win marks a significant victory for the Brazilian contingent. Now, for the first time in its expanded quarterfinals, two Brazilian teams will meet in the tournament!
Fluminense opening the scoring early with a GOAL OF THE YEAR CONTENDER. German Cano opened the scoring just three minutes into the match, heading home a fourth-minute opener. He made his own luck, in a sense, by taking advantage of a deflected cross. With an emphatic header from close range, he started the rout. Fluminense continued to apply pressure as they did all of the first half, almost doubling their lead in the 30th minute. Inter Milan’s goalkeeper, Sommer, committed as he spilled Jhon Arias’s first shot, but Samuel Xavier’s second effort just missed the far-left post.
In the 39th minute, Ignacio appeared to have doubled Fluminense’s advantage. The new automated review system overruled the goal for offside. Even with these misses, Fluminense still showed off their offense.
The game ended in thrilling fashion as Hercules scored the game-winning goal in stoppage time. Finding space at the edge of the 18-yard box, he executed a composed, low finish into the bottom right corner. This goal not only clinched the victory but served as a testament to Fluminense’s ability to take advantage of pivotal opportunities.
Thiago Silva, captain for Fluminense, said he was proud of his team’s performance after the match. He stated, “I am very proud of my team and teammates” for overcoming a strong opponent like Inter Milan. His feelings seem to convey the drive and heart shown by Fluminense during the entire match.
After this embarrassing bout, Fluminense moved to big step farther. They have the Manchester City vs. Al Hilal winner to look forward to in the quarterfinal match scheduled for Friday. The excitement continues to mount as supporters look forward to seeing what team will come out of that matchup to face Fluminense.
Cristian Chivu, Inter Milan’s coach, was proud of his team that fought valiantly even in defeat, lauding his players’ mentality on the pitch. Inter Milan narrowly finished second in the Italian Serie A this season, highlighting the caliber of competition Fluminense has managed to overcome.
