### Fluminense vs. Al Hilal: Anticipation Builds for Club World Cup Quarter-Final
**Exciting Matchup in Orlando**
Today marks a thrilling encounter as Fluminense takes on Al Hilal in the quarter-finals of the Club World Cup. Located at the Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, the atmosphere is expected to be electric. Fans of both teams are in for a treat, with kick-off set for 8 p.m. Moroccan time (GMT+1). Moreover, those eager to catch the action live can enjoy it for free on the DAZN website and app.
### Fluminense’s Momentum
Fluminense enters this match brimming with confidence after a stunning upset over Inter Milan. Under the tactical acumen of coach Renato Gaúcho, the Brazilian side showcased their prowess by scoring early through Germán Cano and sealing the victory with a late goal from Hércules. This victory speaks volumes about their current form, as Fluminense is riding a 10-match unbeaten streak, notably without conceding a single second-half goal throughout the tournament. Such statistics might worry Al Hilal’s forwards, who will need to be sharp to penetrate a disciplined defense.
However, there are challenges for Fluminense. Left-back Renê is suspended, meaning Gabriel Fuentes is likely to step in. Additionally, while midfielder Martinelli took a knock, he’s expected to recover in time to partner with Hércules in the midfield, enhancing Fluminense’s control in the center of the pitch.
### Al Hilal’s Resilience
On the flip side, Al Hilal are in high spirits after a breathtaking 4–3 victory over Manchester City in what many have dubbed the match of the tournament. Despite having a mere 10% possession and facing around 30 shots, they stunned Pep Guardiola’s side in extra time, thanks to standout performances by Marcos Leonardo and an exceptional display from Moroccan goalkeeper Yassine Bounou.
While Al Hilal will be missing key players like Mitrović and Al-Dawsari, the team has managed to adapt without skipping a beat. Marcos Leonardo has emerged as a focal point of their attack, while the midfield tandem of Rúben Neves and Sergej Milinković-Savić brings a wealth of experience and tactical insight to the game. Their defense, spearheaded by European veterans Koulibaly, Cancelo, and Lodi, adds another layer of strength to the side. The presence of Bounou in goal, often likened to a brick wall, has been pivotal in their run.
Additionally, new loanee Abderazzak Hamdallah has joined the training camp and could be a game-changer off the bench. His proven goalscoring ability in the Saudi League makes him a valuable asset as Al Hilal looks to maintain their momentum.
### Tactical Approach: Expecting Counterattacks
One of the intriguing aspects of today’s match will be how each team handles pressure. Al Hilal’s recent performances suggest they will not panic if they fall behind. Their ability to absorb pressure—like they did against Manchester City—and then strike on the counterattack will be crucial. Expect a tactical battle where Fluminense will strive to control the game, while Al Hilal seeks to exploit gaps on the break.
### Predicted Lineups
Both teams are set to deploy a 4-2-3-1 formation, emphasizing their attacking prowess.
**Fluminense’s Expected Lineup:**
– **Goalkeeper:** Fabio
– **Defense:** Xavier, Thiago Silva, Freytes, Fuentes
– **Midfield:** Martinelli, Hércules
– **Attack:** Arias, Nonato, Canobbio, Cano
**Al Hilal’s Expected Lineup:**
– **Goalkeeper:** Bounou
– **Defense:** Cancelo, Koulibaly, Al-Harbi, Lodi
– **Midfield:** N. Al-Dawsari, Neves, Kanno
– **Attack:** Milinković-Savić; Malcom, Leonardo
### Score Prediction
While Fluminense has shown they can create opportunities, Al Hilal appears sharper and more clinical in key moments. Having already toppled one giant in Manchester City, they’ll be looking to do the same against Fluminense. With the stakes high, a close match is anticipated.
**MWN Prediction:** Fluminense 1 – 2 Al Hilal
