🏆 Fluminense Club World Cup Run: One Game from the Final
Fluminense are just one win away from the FIFA Club World Cup final. The Brazilian team beat Saudi Arabian club Al Hilal 2-1 in a dramatic match in Orlando.
Fluminense coach Renato Portaluppi called his team the “ugly duckling” of the tournament. They have a small budget and few big names. But on the pitch, they are showing heart and skill.
⚽ Match Recap: Fluminense 2-1 Al Hilal
- Date: July 4, 2025
- Location: Camping World Stadium, Orlando
- Score: Fluminense 2, Al Hilal 1
Martinelli scored a beautiful goal to give Fluminense the lead. Later, Hercules came off the bench to score the winner. Al Hilal equalized once but could not respond again.
🇧🇷 The Underdog Story Continues
Last year, Fluminense were close to being relegated. Now, they are close to winning a global title. They qualified by winning the 2023 Copa Libertadores. Few people expected them to go far.
In the last round, they shocked Inter Milan with a 2-0 win. Against Al Hilal, they were strong in defense and efficient in attack.
Coach Portaluppi said:
“We want it more. It’s 11 against 11. Our team is doing beautiful things.”
🧤 Veteran Heroes Lead the Way
Thiago Silva, who turns 41 soon, led the defense with class. Goalkeeper Fábio, aged 44, made a key save to stop a header from Kalidou Koulibaly.
Portaluppi praised Silva:
“He’s the coach on the pitch. He brings calm and experience.”
🇸🇦 Al Hilal’s Brave Effort
Al Hilal had just beaten Manchester City 4-3. But they looked tired. Two of their players, Rúben Neves and João Cancelo, were emotional. Their close friend Diogo Jota died in a car crash before the game.
Even in pain, they played bravely. Coach Simone Inzaghi thanked them:
“They didn’t give up. It was a hard night.”
🔮 What’s Next for Fluminense?
Fluminense now head to New York for the semifinal. They will likely be the underdogs again. But after two big wins, few will bet against them.
They have already earned $60.8 million in prize money, which is 81.7% of their revenue from last year.
📌 Fast Match Facts
| Match Info | Detail |
|---|---|
| Score | Fluminense 2-1 Al Hilal |
| Key Scorers | Martinelli, Hercules |
| Veteran Leaders | Thiago Silva, Fábio |
| Location | Orlando, Florida |
| Next Match | Semifinal in New York |
| Prize Money Earned | $60.8 million |
🙋♂️ FAQs: Fluminense at the Club World Cup
Q1: How did Fluminense reach the semifinals?
They beat Inter Milan 2-0 and Al Hilal 2-1.
Q2: Who scored against Al Hilal?
Martinelli and Hercules.
Q3: What is Fluminense’s prize money so far?
$60.8 million, or 81.7% of their total revenue last year.
Q4: Who is Fluminense’s key player?
Thiago Silva. His leadership has been vital.
