Fluminense vs Al-Hilal

Fluminense delivered a stunning upset against Inter Milan in the Club World Cup round of 16, showcasing tactical brilliance and tireless energy to deepen the Italian side’s mid-season woes. The Brazilian team overwhelmed Inter early, with German Cano heading in a goal just three minutes into the match. Despite Inter’s efforts to level the score, including Lautaro Martinez hitting the post and testing Fluminense’s 44-year-old goalkeeper Fabio, the South Americans held firm. Hercules sealed the victory with a late second goal, sparking wild celebrations in Charlotte and Rio.

Fluminense’s knack for late goals—half of their six tournament goals came after the 75th minute—and a rock-solid defense led by Thiago Silva, which hasn’t conceded in the second half, make them a formidable force. Having advanced as Group F runners-up with a 4-2 win over Ulsan HD and two goalless draws, the 2023 Copa Libertadores champions continue to represent South American football proudly. Unbeaten in 10 matches across all competitions, with five clean sheets in their last six, Fluminense are strong contenders to reach the semi-finals.

Their next challenge is Al-Hilal, marking the fifth Brazilian-Saudi clash in Club World Cup history. Al-Hilal, who made history as the first Asian team to defeat a UEFA side in the tournament’s 25 years by ousting Manchester City in a thrilling 4-3 extra-time battle, are no strangers to defying expectations.

Despite City’s dominance in shots and possession, Al-Hilal capitalized on their chances, with Kalidou Koulibaly and Marcos Leonardo scoring crucial goals. The Saudi side, unbeaten in nine matches since May and having held Real Madrid in the group stage, boasts a potent attack, with Brazilians like Leonardo outscoring even Fluminense’s contingent.

To counter Inter’s 3-5-2, Fluminense’s coach Renato Gaucho opted for a back three, anchored by Thiago Silva alongside Juan Pablo Freytes and Ignacio. It’s unclear if he’ll stick with this setup against Al-Hilal, but German Cano and Jhon Arias, who leads the team in shots (13), chances created (12), dribbles (nine), and possession won (17), will likely spearhead the attack.

Al-Hilal, meanwhile, face injury concerns: striker Aleksandar Mitrovic is sidelined, captain Salem Al-Dawsari is nursing a hamstring issue, and Abdullah Al-Hamddan and Mosab Al-Juwair are doubtful. Defender Hassan Tambakti’s availability is also in question. However, goalkeeper Yassine Bounou, known as ‘Bono,’ has been a standout, saving 85% of shots faced, including 10 of 13 against City.

Possible Lineups:

• Fluminense: Fabio; Ignacio, Silva, Freytes; Xavier, Hercules, Martinelli, Rene; Nonato; Arias, Cano
• Al-Hilal: Bono; Cancelo, Tambakti, Koulibaly, Lodi; Neves, Kanno; Malcom, Milinkovic-Savic, N. Al-Dawsari; Leonardo

Both teams are in top form, setting the stage for a thrilling quarter-final clash.