In an unforeseen turn of events at the Club World Cup, Fluminense triumphed over Inter Milan with a 2-0 victory, a result that has stirred discontent within the Italian team. Following the unexpected loss in the round of 16, Inter Milan’s captain Lautaro Martínez did not hold back in expressing his frustration with the team’s performance. Martinez openly challenged their commitment, saying, “Whoever wants to stay, stay; whoever does not want to stay should go,” after the defeat. His rallying cry for dedication comes on the heels of a demanding season in which Inter finished second in both the Champions League and Serie A.
This disappointing season led to managerial changes, with former Inter defender Cristian Chivu stepping up as head coach. Chivu took the reins following a disheartening 5-0 loss in the Champions League final, just before participating in the Club World Cup. Agreeing with Martínez’s candid critique, Chivu has supported the captain’s straightforward evaluation of the team’s current situation.
Meanwhile, Fluminense’s victory highlights the impressive performance of South American teams in the tournament, making them the second Brazilian club to advance to the quarterfinals. The triumph has been seen as a testimony to the prowess of South American football by Fluminense’s Everaldo, who stated, “We are teaching people around the world that South American football is good, too.” This victory serves as a reminder of the continent’s significant influence on global football.
Looking ahead, Fluminense is set to face off against the winner of the Manchester City-Al Hilal match on Friday in Orlando, Florida. Brazilian clubs have demonstrated formidable strength, with all four teams progressing to the round of 16. Currently, both Fluminense and Palmeiras stand as representatives of Brazil in the quarterfinals, solidifying the growing prominence of South American football on the world stage.