Fluminense Knock Out Al-Hilal to Reach Club World Cup Semis with Gritty 2-1 Victory

Orlando, USA – July 4, 2025 – In a passionate and emotionally-charged quarter-final at the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, Brazilian side Fluminense FC triumphed over Saudi Arabian powerhouse Al-Hilal SFC with a hard-fought 2–1 victory at Camping World Stadium. More than 43,000 fans witnessed a match that delivered not only footballing drama but also a poignant tribute to the family of Portuguese international Diogo Jota, who recently suffered a devastating personal loss. Before kickoff, both teams stood in a moment of silence that deeply moved players and supporters alike. João Cancelo and Rúben Neves were visibly emotional, embracing at midfield in a gesture that underscored the unifying spirit of the sport.

This victory secures Fluminense a place in the semi-finals, where they await the outcome of the clash between Chelsea FC and Palmeiras. For coach Fernando Diniz and his players, the win was not merely a tactical achievement but a continuation of a campaign marked by resilience, emotional intelligence, and unwavering belief.

Martinelli Opens the Scoring in a Tense First Half
The first 45 minutes saw a cautious and calculated battle unfold, with both teams showing patience in their buildup and few clear-cut chances early on. Al-Hilal, still riding the momentum of their stunning win over Manchester City in the previous round, controlled possession in spells through the midfield pairing of Rúben Neves and Sergej Milinković-Savić. Yet it was Fluminense who broke the deadlock.

In the 40th minute, a failed clearance from the Al-Hilal defense allowed Matheus Martinelli to pounce on a loose ball just outside the penalty area. With poise and precision, he curled a left-footed shot into the far corner past goalkeeper Yassine Bounou. The goal was a brilliant piece of individual execution and a key turning point that injected confidence into the Brazilian side.

Al-Hilal Respond, but Hércules Has the Final Word
The second half began with urgency from Al-Hilal. They equalized just six minutes into the half. A corner delivery found Kalidou Koulibaly, whose header deflected off teammate Marcus Leonardo’s leg and bounced awkwardly past Fluminense keeper Fábio. The goal appeared unintentional, but it galvanized the Saudi club and shifted momentum briefly in their favor.

Al-Hilal pushed forward with increasing pressure, launching attacks through the wings via Malcom and Mitrović, but the Fluminense defense held firm. Nino and veteran Felipe Melo anchored the backline, cutting out danger and preserving composure under pressure.

Then came the moment of brilliance from coach Fernando Diniz. In the 65th minute, he introduced Hércules as a substitute. Within five minutes, Hércules received a low pass at the edge of the box, turned sharply away from his marker, and drove a precise low shot into the bottom corner. His goal in the 70th minute restored Fluminense’s lead and would ultimately prove decisive.

From that moment, Fluminense defended with structure and launched selective counter-attacks through Jhon Arias and Germán Cano. The match saw no further goals, but remained intense until the final whistle.

Discipline, Drama, and What Comes Next
Despite his stellar performance, Martinelli was shown a yellow card late in the match, which will rule him out of the semi-final due to suspension. The young midfielder has been a standout in this tournament, and his absence will be felt. Coach Diniz acknowledged this in the post-match press conference, stating, “We will have to adjust, but this squad is united. We trust the group, and we will fight with whoever is on the pitch.”

Fluminense now prepare for the semi-final, where they could face either domestic rivals Palmeiras or English side Chelsea. Palmeiras offer a familiar challenge—physically imposing, tactically disciplined, and historically successful in continental competition. Chelsea, meanwhile, would bring the challenge of a high-tempo, technically gifted European squad filled with depth.

Whatever the outcome of that clash, Fluminense approach the next round with confidence, having eliminated one of the tournament’s most expensive and experienced teams.

Fluminense's Story Grows Bigger
From the neighborhoods of Laranjeiras to the bright lights of Orlando, Fluminense’s 2025 Club World Cup journey has become a story of heart, structure, and belief. The Rio de Janeiro-based side may not have the financial might of their global counterparts, but their on-field identity—built on technical play, mental resilience, and squad unity—continues to deliver results.

They have reminded the football world that the beauty of Brazilian football lies not only in flair, but in collective strength and purpose. As thousands of fans across Brazil chant from the stands and millions more watch from home, Fluminense are proving that no dream is too big when belief is real.

With this victory, the Tricolor advance into the final stages of the global tournament, leaving behind them a fallen giant and taking one more step toward glory.


Match Statistics

Final Score: Fluminense 2–1 Al-Hilal
Goals: Martinelli (40'), Marcus Leonardo (51'), Hércules (70')
Possession: Al-Hilal 54% – Fluminense 46%
Shots on Target: Al-Hilal 5 – Fluminense 4
Attendance: 43,091 – Camping World Stadium, Orlando