Fluminense Shocks Inter Milan to Storm Into Club World Cup Quarters

Against all odds and expectation, Fluminense has done the unthinkable. The Brazilian side defeated Champions League runners-up Inter Milan 2-0 in a stunning round-of-16 clash at the FIFA Club World Cup.

A Tactical Masterstroke Pays Off

Coach Renato Gaúcho’s bold decision to switch to a three-man defense proved pivotal. “I put it in their heads that it would work,” he said in a post-match interview with DAZN. “Inter has more money, but it’s 11 against 11 on the pitch.”

The plan worked. Inter controlled possession, but Fluminense stayed compact and dangerous on the counter. The Copa Libertadores champions were organized, clinical, and never intimidated.

Cano Strikes Early, Hercules Finishes Late

The match opened with fireworks. Just three minutes in, Argentine forward Germán Cano capitalized on a deflected cross and slotted the ball through Yann Sommer’s legs. It was the dream start Fluminense needed.

Inter had their chances: Lautaro Martínez hit the post, Fabio made key saves, and Stefan de Vrij missed a sitter. But Fluminense’s resilience held.

In stoppage time, substitute Hercules sealed the win with a composed finish from the edge of the box — triggering wild celebrations from the Brazilian bench and the traveling fans.

Veteran Fabio Shines in Goal

At 44 years old, goalkeeper Fábio showed exactly why he’s still between the posts. From denying Sebastiano Esposito with a quick reaction save to commanding the penalty area, he was the unsung hero.

The defensive unit in front of him — flanked by the tireless Jhon Arias — remained tight and unshaken despite waves of pressure from the Italian giants.

What’s Next: A Quarterfinal Clash in Orlando

Fluminense now advances to face either Manchester City or Al Hilal in the quarterfinals on Friday in Orlando, Florida. This marks their most significant international breakthrough since their Copa Libertadores victory.

They also become the second Brazilian team to reach the quarterfinals of this year’s tournament, joining Palmeiras who earlier defeated Botafogo.

Bottom Line

Fluminense didn’t just win — they announced themselves. Tactical discipline, fearless execution, and belief from the bench to the pitch turned the tide in their favor. Inter Milan might’ve had the stars, but it was Fluminense who had the story.

Stay tuned: the underdogs are writing the script.