December 18, (THEWILL) – Brazilian side Fluminense booked their place in the 2023 FIFA Club World Cup final with a hard-fought 2-0 victory over Egyptian champions Al Ahly on Monday. Playing in their first-ever Club World Cup, Fluminense relied on a second-half penalty from Jhon Arias and a late goal from John Kennedy to see off the spirited challenge from Al Ahly.
The match was evenly poised in the first half, but the game sprang to life after the break. Al Ahly looked the better side and crafted several good chances, with Hussein El Shahat and Mohamed Hany going close. Yet, against the run of play, Fluminense won a penalty when Marcelo was fouled in the box, allowing Arias to break the deadlock from the spot.
Al Ahly continued to press for an equaliser but were exposed on the counterattack. Veteran striker German Cano was denied by the goalkeeper before youngster John Kennedy clinched the win with a composed finish in the 89th minute after a swift break.
In the end, Fluminense’s quality in front of goal proved the difference. Still, they were made to work hard for victory by an Al Ahly side who dominated long spells of the second half before running out of steam.
Fluminense now progressed to face either Manchester City or Japanese side Urawa Red Diamonds in Friday’s Club World Cup final in Riyadh. Their dream of being crowned world champions in their debut outing remains very much alive.
About the Author
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
