The quarter-final of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup was another classic encounter as Fluminense edged past Al Hilal 2–1 in a fiercely contested game at Camping World Stadium, Orlando. With over 43,000 fans in attendance, both teams delivered a top-quality knockout contest, but it was the Brazilian side that clinched the semifinal spot.
⚽ First-Half: Fluminense Draw First Blood
The game opened with high intensity. Al Hilal controlled early possession and pressured Fluminense’s backline. However, Fluminense stayed compact and waited for their opportunity.
The breakthrough came in the 40th minute. A poor clearance from Al Hilal was picked up by Matheus Martinelli, who struck a stunning right-footed curler from outside the box into the top corner to give Fluminense a 1–0 lead.
Al Hilal almost equalized moments later when Mitrović went down in the box, but a quick VAR check reversed the penalty decision.
🔁 Second-Half: Al Hilal’s Response and Fluminense’s Winner
Al Hilal started the second half strongly. In the 51st minute, Marcos Leonardo headed in a precise cross from Kalidou Koulibaly to level the score at 1–1.
Despite having 57% possession and more shots, Al Hilal couldn’t convert their dominance into goals. In the 70th minute, Fluminense substitute Hércules seized on a blocked shot in the box and calmly slotted home the rebound, making it 2–1.
📊 Match Stats Snapshot
Final Score: Fluminense 2–1 Al Hilal
Goals: Martinelli (40’), Marcos Leonardo (51’), Hércules (70’)
Possession: Al Hilal 57% – Fluminense 43%
Shots on Target: 3 each
Corners: Al Hilal 12 – Fluminense 4
🔥 Key Performers
Kalidou Koulibaly (Al Hilal): Provided leadership and assisted the equalizer.
Matheus Martinelli (Fluminense): Opened the scoring with a sensational goal.
Hércules (Fluminense): Came off the bench to score the winner.
🗣 Coach Reactions
Renato Gaúcho praised his Fluminense team’s determination: “We suffered when necessary, repressed when we had to, and capitalized on our chances.”
Simone Inzaghi remained proud despite defeat: “We’ve proven we can stand shoulder-to-shoulder with the greatest of all time.”
🏆 What’s Next
Fluminense advance to the semi-final on July 8, where they’ll face the winner of Palmeiras vs Chelsea. Al Hilal’s journey ends here, but their run – including a win over Manchester City – leaves a lasting impression.
This quarter-final clash showcased South American tactical finesse vs Middle Eastern flair. In the end, Fluminense’s timely goals and cool heads made the difference. The semi-finals now promise more thrilling drama in the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup.
