Sat Jul 05 18:00:00 UTC 2025: **Fluminense Overcomes Financial Odds, Defeats Al-Hilal 2-1 to Reach Club World Cup Semi-Finals**
**ORLANDO, Fla.** – In a stunning display of grit and determination, Brazilian side Fluminense triumphed over Saudi Arabian powerhouse Al-Hilal with a 2-1 victory in the FIFA Club World Cup quarter-finals. Overcoming a significant financial disadvantage, the Copa Libertadores champions secured their spot in the semi-finals against all expectations.
Before the match, Fluminense’s coach, Renato Portaluppi, acknowledged the stark financial disparities between the two clubs, with Al-Hilal backed by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund. However, Portaluppi emphasized that “football is decided on the pitch,” a sentiment that proved true as his team demonstrated resilience and efficiency.
Martinelli’s stunning first-half strike put Fluminense ahead, while substitute Hercules, already a hero from their previous match, secured the win with a late goal. Al-Hilal responded with a goal from Marcos Leonardo, but ultimately couldn’t match Fluminense’s resolve.
Veteran players Thiago Silva, 41, and goalkeeper Fábio, 44, played pivotal roles in the victory. Silva marshaled the defense, while Fábio made crucial saves to deny Al-Hilal’s comeback attempts.
Al-Hilal’s coach, Simone Inzaghi, acknowledged the impact of a recent tragedy on his players, Ruben Neves and João Cancelo, who were mourning the loss of a close friend.
Despite the loss, Al-Hilal acknowledged their progress after stunning Manchester City in the previous round.
Fluminense, who battled relegation in their domestic league last season, entered the Club World Cup as underdogs. Now, with newfound confidence and a significant boost to their finances, they are just one game away from the final. Portaluppi’s side will likely be underdogs again in the semi-final, but after defying expectations so far, they have proven that anything is possible.
First Piper 