In a stunning upset at the FIFA Club World Cup 2025, Brazilian side Fluminense knocked out Italian giants Inter Milan with a 2-0 victory in the round of 16. The match, held at the Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte, North Carolina, saw Fluminense deliver a strong and gutsy performance against the reigning UEFA Champions League runners-up.
Fluminense wasted no time in asserting their dominance, with Germán Cano scoring just three minutes into the match. A deflected cross found Cano, who headed the ball past Inter goalkeeper Yann Sommer to give the Brazilian side an early lead. Inter Milan struggled to find their footing after the early goal, facing a high-tempo and high-pressing Fluminense side.
Despite Inter Milan's efforts to equalize, Fluminense's defense stood firm, frustrating the Italian side's attacking attempts. Inter had as many as 16 attempts on goal, with four on target, but failed to break the deadlock against a solid Fluminense defense. The Brazilian side, while enjoying less possession, remained dangerous on the counter-attack.
Fluminense nearly doubled their lead before halftime when Ignacio Oliveira scored, but the goal was ruled out for offside after a VAR review. Inter Milan had their best chance to equalize in the 70th minute when Lautaro Martínez was denied by Fluminense's inspired goalkeeper Fábio and then hit the post.
In stoppage time, Hércules sealed the victory for Fluminense with a left-footed strike into the bottom corner. The goal sparked wild celebrations among Fluminense players and fans, securing their place in the quarter-finals.
Fluminense's victory marks a historic moment for the club and a significant upset in the Club World Cup. They become the second Brazilian team to reach the quarter-finals, joining Palmeiras. Fluminense will now face the winner of the match between Manchester City and Al Hilal.
Inter Milan's captain, Lautaro Martinez, expressed his disappointment after the match, stating that "whoever doesn't want to stay should leave". Inter's exit from the Club World Cup means they will end the season without any silverware.
Fluminense's Thiago Silva, despite playing under an injury cloud, led his team with resilience and energy. His inspirational efforts and the team's defensive stinginess contributed to the victory.
