Orlando – In a thrilling FIFA Club World Cup clash on Friday, Fluminense overcame Al Hilal 2-1 to earn a spot in the semifinals against Chelsea. Hercules struck a powerful right-footed winner in the 70th minute, sealing victory for the Brazilian side at Exploria Stadium.
Fluminense broke the deadlock in the 40th minute when Matheus Martinelli curled a pinpoint shot into the top far corner, set up by a精准 cross from Gabriel Fuentes. Just before halftime, Al Hilal thought they had drawn level from a penalty, only to see the referee’s decision overturned after a VAR review.
The Saudi side responded early in the second half, with Kalidou Koulibaly’s precise header teeing up Marcos Leonardo to score his fourth goal of the tournament in the 51st minute. Edeneton’s comeback bid, however, stalled against Fluminense’s disciplined defense.
Moments of controversy followed as Al Hilal players appealed for multiple spot-kicks in the final quarter. Koulibaly was booked for simulation, and VAR checks were not initiated. In the mixed zone, Koulibaly voiced his frustration: “We did everything to win. Fluminense played very well defensively. I don’t understand [the referee’s decision]. If you check VAR in the first half, you should check it in the second.”
The decisive moment came when Hercules unleashed a fierce strike from the edge of the box, leaving the goalkeeper with no chance. The goal sparked celebrations among Fluminense fans and guaranteed the club’s progression to the last four.
Up next, Fluminense will face Premier League outfit Chelsea in a marquee semifinal showdown. The match promises to be a high-stakes battle of styles as Brazil’s champions look to upset one of Europe’s elite on their path to the Club World Cup final.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
