In a thrilling quarterfinal match of the FIFA Club World Cup, Fluminense vs Al-Hilal ended with the Brazilian side securing a 2-1 win. The game was played on Friday in Orlando, Florida, and marked the first-ever meeting between the two clubs.
Fluminense, one of the tournament underdogs, opened the scoring in the 40th minute. Midfielder Matheus Martinelli controlled a pass from Gabriel Fuentes with a fine first touch, then fired a powerful left-footed shot into the top corner. His goal gave Fluminense a 1-0 lead at halftime.
Just before the break, Al Hilal came close to equalizing. Defender Kalidou Koulibaly’s strong header was pushed wide by Fluminense goalkeeper Fabio in first-half stoppage time.
The second half of Fluminense vs Al-Hilal started with intense pressure from the Saudi side. Koulibaly again rose highest during a corner in the 51st minute. This time, his header dropped perfectly for Marcus Leonardo, who calmly scored from close range to level the match 1-1. It was Leonardo’s fourth goal of the tournament.
Fluminense regained their lead in the 70th minute. Substitute Hercules, making his second appearance off the bench, scored the decisive goal. His strike ensured Fluminense’s place in the semifinals, where they will face the winner of the Palmeiras vs Chelsea match.
Despite their earlier upset victory over Manchester City, Al Hilal’s tournament run came to an end. They were the last Asian team in the competition.
The Fluminense vs Al-Hilal clash was full of energy, close calls, and standout performances. In the end, it was Fluminense who held firm, continuing their unexpected journey in the Club World Cup.
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