Fluminese, Brazilian side, stunned Italian Serie A side, Inter Milan, with a 2-0 triumph to progress to the quarter-finals of the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 on Monday 30 June, 2025 at Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte, North Carolina.
In the round of 16 match, Fluminense went in front through striker, German Cano’s header very early, in the 3rd minute of action, and substitute Hercules netted a curling shot in the 3rd minute of additional time to make it 2-0 for the South American side.
Lautaro Martinez, Nerazzurri forward, got a series of chances to level before the second goal, encompassing one against the post very late, while Federico Dimarco also came near to netting from two free-kicks and had a close-range shot from a wide angle.
The most beautiful opportunity came to Dutch defender Stefan de Vrij following Martinez’s clever knockdown.
The showdown took place inside the Stadium with a capacity of more than 74,000, but, recorded a crowd of just a little above 20,000.
The hot weather and level of quality of pitches have not been favourable for European clubs to deal with, while supporters from South America have dominated the various host cities in the United States (US) making each match seem like a home game for their clubs.
Argentine goal machine, Martinez, struggled for more than 60 minutes, and was handed some breathing space after new head coach, Cristian Chivu, had made some substitutions, however, he was unlucky not to find the back of the net.
Marcua Thuram was dull and calm all through the encounter, making no meaningful impact.
HC: Anything is possible in the FIFA Club World Cup
