Charlotte, USA – Football fans were treated to a thrilling Round of 16 clash as Brazilian giants Fluminense shocked UEFA Champions League finalists Inter Milan, claiming a stunning 2-0 victory at the Bank of America Stadium. The result sends Fluminense into the quarter-finals of the FIFA Club World Cup and continues a remarkable run of form for the Tricolor.
Early Blitz Sees Fluminense Take Control
Kenyan football enthusiasts following the FIFA Club World Cup would have been impressed by Fluminense’s fearless start. Despite failing to register a single shot on target in their previous group match, Renato Gaúcho’s men pressed Inter high from the first whistle.
Their reward came swiftly in the 3rd minute when Jhon Arias whipped in a cross from the right that took a deflection and fell perfectly for Germán Cano. The Argentine striker made no mistake, nodding home to give the Brazilian side a shock early lead.
Inter Milan’s Response Falls Short
Inter Milan, boasting stars like Federico Dimarco and Henrikh Mkhitaryan, tried to respond. Dimarco forced a brilliant save from veteran Brazilian goalkeeper Fábio in the 11th minute. The Italians dominated possession for a spell, but Fluminense’s compact defence frustrated them.
Kenyan fans know that football can hinge on fine margins, and Inter found themselves wasteful in front of goal. Samuel Xavier nearly doubled the lead for the Brazilians before half-time after Sommer could only parry Arias’ long-range effort. However, the right-back dragged his shot wide from close range.
Fluminense’s Defence Stands Tall
In the second half, Inter Milan pushed hard for an equaliser. Stefan de Vrij saw an effort fly off target, while Arias continued to threaten with dangerous shots from distance, forcing Sommer into fingertip saves.
Inter had their best chance late on as Lautaro MartÃnez set up de Vrij inside the six-yard box, only for the Dutch defender to miss the target. MartÃnez himself struck the post and forced Fábio into more saves as time ran out for the Nerazzurri.
Hércules Seals the Deal
With Inter committing bodies forward, Fluminense struck the killer blow. Substitute Hércules broke away in the final minutes, coolly slotting home to secure a famous 2-0 victory.
Fluminense’s triumph not only books their place in the quarter-finals but also extends their unbeaten run to ten matches. Meanwhile, Inter Milan head back to Italy empty-handed and still searching for their first competitive goal against Brazilian opposition.
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