Fluminense FC pulled off one of the early shocks of the FIFA Club World Cup 2025, defeating UEFA Champions League finalists Inter Milan 2-0 at the Bank of America Stadium on Tuesday (IST) to book their place in the quarterfinals.
The Brazilian side wasted no time asserting themselves. Just three minutes into the match, a costly Inter mistake allowed Rene to spark a swift counter-attack. He released Jhon Arias down the flank, whose deflected cross looped over the Inter defense and fell perfectly for Germán Cano. The Argentine striker made no mistake, heading through Jan Sommer’s legs to put Fluminense ahead.
Fluminense nearly doubled their lead on the half-hour mark. Arias once again caused problems with a curling shot that forced a full-stretch save from Sommer. The rebound fell invitingly for Samuel Xavier, but the right-back couldn’t capitalize, firing wide with the goal gaping.
Despite enjoying 66% of first-half possession, Inter struggled to convert control into clear chances. Both teams recorded five shots before the break.
Inter came out stronger in the second half and began piling on the pressure. In the 69th minute, Lautaro Martinez nodded the ball down into the path of Stefan de Vrij, but the Dutch defender skewed his shot wide. Moments later, Federico Dimarco’s free-kick flew just past the post.
Fluminense goalkeeper Fabio was called into action in the 82nd minute, pulling off a brilliant save to deny Salvatore Esposito’s close-range volley. Martinez came even closer minutes later, but his shot rattled the inside of the post and stayed out.
Inter’s missed chances came back to haunt them in stoppage time. With the Italians committing men forward in search of an equalizer, substitute Hercules struck the killer blow. The midfielder found space at the top of the box and drilled a left-footed effort past Sommer in the 93rd minute to wrap up a famous win.
Fluminense’s disciplined performance and clinical finishing earned them a well-deserved spot in the last eight, while Inter are left to rue missed opportunities.
