Brazilian side Fluminense defeated Inter Milan 2-0 on Monday in Charlotte, North Carolina, to book their place in the quarter-finals of the FIFA Club World Cup.
An early header by German Cano and a stoppage-time goal from substitute Hercules sealed the victory for the 2023 Copa Libertadores champions, who now join Palmeiras as the second Brazilian side in the last eight.
Fluminense, captained by veteran defender Thiago Silva, will face either Manchester City or Al Hilal in the quarter-finals in Orlando.
Cano opened the scoring in just the third minute after Jhon Arias’ cross deflected off Inter’s Alessandro Bastoni and bounced awkwardly, allowing the Argentine striker to head home through Yann Sommer’s legs.
Despite dominating possession in the second half, Inter couldn’t find a breakthrough. Lautaro Martinez hit the post and was denied by Fluminense goalkeeper Fabio, while Stefan de Vrij also missed from close range.
Inter’s hopes were dashed in stoppage time when Hercules fired in a low shot to double Fluminense’s lead. Federico Dimarco struck the woodwork moments later, but it was too little too late.
The result continues a strong showing for South American clubs at the tournament, with Brazilian teams already securing victories over European giants PSG and Chelsea in the group stages.
