%20(1).jpg)
Fluminense Edges Past Ulsan Hyundai in Thrilling Club World Cup Clash
December 15, 2023
Flu Secures Semifinal Spot with Hard-Fought 1-0 Victory
Jeddah, Saudi Arabia – Fluminense booked their place in the FIFA Club World Cup semifinals after a tense 1-0 victory over South Korea’s Ulsan Hyundai at King Abdullah Sports City Stadium. A second-half strike from veteran striker Germán Cano proved decisive, as the Brazilian side overcame a spirited challenge from the Asian champions.
The match, played in front of a lively crowd, saw Fluminense dominate possession but struggle to break down a well-organized Ulsan defense. The Korean side, led by captain Lee Myung-jae, frustrated the Copa Libertadores champions for much of the game before Cano’s moment of brilliance settled the contest.
Match Summary: Cano the Hero Again
The first half was a cagey affair, with Fluminense controlling the tempo but failing to create clear chances. Ulsan, disciplined in their 4-4-2 shape, relied on quick counterattacks, with Darijan Bojanić and Gustav Ludwigson posing threats on the break.
The breakthrough finally came in the 67th minute, when Jhon Arias delivered a pinpoint cross into the box, and Cano—Fluminense’s top scorer this season—guided a precise header past Ulsan goalkeeper Jo Hyeon-woo. The goal was Cano’s 12th in continental competitions this year, further cementing his status as Flu’s talisman.
Ulsan pushed for an equalizer in the dying minutes, with substitute Martin Ádam forcing a sharp save from Fluminense keeper Fábio, but the Brazilians held firm to secure the win.
Key Talking Points
✅ Flu’s Experience Shines – Despite a slow start, Fluminense’s composure in midfield, led by André Trindade, proved crucial in breaking down Ulsan’s resistance.
✅ Ulsan’s Valiant Effort – The K League side defended resolutely and nearly snatched a late equalizer, showing why they were Asian champions.
✅ Semifinal Awaits – Fluminense will now face either Al Ahly or Auckland City in the semifinals, moving one step closer to a potential final against Manchester City.
Post-Match Reactions
Fernando Diniz (Fluminense coach):
"It wasn’t easy, but we showed maturity. Ulsan made it difficult, but Cano’s quality made the difference. Now we focus on the next challenge."
Hong Myung-bo (Ulsan coach):
"I’m proud of my players. We had our chances, but against a team like Fluminense, small details decide the game."
Germán Cano (Matchwinner):
"I’m happy to help the team. We knew it would be tough, but we trusted our style. The dream is still alive."
What’s Next?
Fluminense will await their semifinal opponent, while Ulsan Hyundai’s Club World Cup journey ends in a respectable performance against elite competition. For the Brazilians, the quest to become world champions continues—with Manchester City potentially looming in the final.
Publisher
%20(1).jpg)