Fluminense stun Inter Milan 2-0 to reach Club World Cup quarterfinals
Fluminense defeated European heavyweights Inter Milan 2-0 in the Round of 16 at the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, booking their place in the quarter-finals and marking one of the club’s most historic international wins.
Argentine forward Germán Cano got the Brazilian side off to a dream start with a close-range finish in just the 3rd minute, capitalizing on a deflected cross from Jhon Arias. The goal stunned Inter, who then took control of possession for much of the first half, only to find Fluminense disciplined and resolute in defense.
Fluminense thought they had doubled their lead late in the half with a spectacular team goal, but Ignácio’s finish was ruled offside. Despite intense pressure from Inter, Flu went into halftime 1-0 ahead, a lead they fully deserved under the scorching Charlotte sun.
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The second half unfolded in sapping heat and humidity, forcing early substitutions. Inter pushed hard for an equalizer, with Lautaro Martínez coming closest, first being denied by the goalkeeper, then smacking the post, and finally watching a teasing ball roll agonizingly along the goal line.
As tempers flared and tensions rose, the Brazilians held their nerve. A late goal from substitute Hércules in the 93rd minute finished the job, sparking wild celebrations among the Fluminense faithful.
Brazilian brilliance on display
With Palmeiras already through, Fluminense’s victory sends a second Brazilian club into the quarter-finals, further highlighting CONMEBOL's growing threat to European dominance in this expanded Club World Cup.
It was a miserable night for Inter, who exit the competition having hit the woodwork twice and failed to find a way past a determined Fluminense side. But for Flu, it’s a moment of glory, one that ranks alongside their Copa Libertadores triumphs.
What’s Next?
Fluminense now advances to the quarter-finals, where they will face the winner of Manchester City vs Al Hilal, a mouthwatering clash that could pit them against the reigning European champions.
SportsLigue