The FIFA Club World Cup quarter-finals kick off with a blockbuster showdown as Brazilian giants Fluminense take on Saudi Arabia’s Al-Hilal on July 4, 2025, at Camping World Stadium in Orlando. With a semi-final spot against either Palmeiras or Chelsea at stake, this clash promises to deliver a fascinating tactical battle between South American discipline and Saudi attacking flair.

 

 

Match Preview 

Fluminense arrive in Florida riding a wave of confidence after a clinical 2-0 win over Inter Milan in the Round of 16. Goals from Germán Cano and Hércules underlined their ability to strike early and finish strong. Under coach Renato Gaúcho, Fluminense have built a reputation for defensive organization, conceding just two goals across the tournament so far.

 

In contrast, Al-Hilal come off the tournament’s most dramatic upset, edging Manchester City 4-3 after extra time. Marcos Leonardo’s brace—including the 112th-minute winner—demonstrated the lethal finishing that has powered their unbeaten run. Manager Simone Inzaghi’s side combine technical quality in midfield with an ability to absorb pressure and explode on the counter.

 

This is the first-ever competitive meeting between the clubs, adding an extra layer of intrigue.

 

 

 

Recent Form

Fluminense:

  • Unbeaten in 10 matches (7 wins, 3 draws)
  • Group Stage: 2nd in Group F, notable 0-0 draws with Dortmund and Sundowns
  • Key Player: Jhon Arias – 13 shots, 12 chances created
  • Top Scorer: Germán Cano (6 goals this season)

Al-Hilal:

  • Unbeaten in 9 matches (6 wins, 3 draws)
  • Group Stage: 2nd in Group H, drew 1-1 with Real Madrid
  • Key Player: Marcos Leonardo – 3 goals in the tournament, 17 in the Saudi Pro League
  • Goalkeeper: Yassine Bono – 85% save rate in the group stage

 

 

Key Battles to Watch

  • Jhon Arias vs. João Cancelo: Arias’ dribbling and chance creation will test Cancelo’s defensive focus.
  • Thiago Silva vs. Marcos Leonardo: The veteran centre-back against Al-Hilal’s in-form striker.
  • Midfield Control: Neves and Milinković-Savić against Fluminense’s more reactive double pivot.

 

 

 

What The Coaches Have to Say 

Renato Gaúcho (Fluminense)

 “We don’t need the ball to win; we need to be clinical. They have great players, but we’ve shown we can frustrate big teams.”

 

Simone Inzaghi (Al-Hilal)

 “We respect Fluminense’s organization. To win, we have to control the midfield and stay disciplined.”

 

 

 

Predictions & Betting Tips

This clash is a true contrast of styles—Fluminense’s defensive solidity against Al-Hilal’s creative midfield and late-game threat.

 

Predicted Score: Fluminense 2-1 Al-Hilal

Alternative: 1-1 draw decided in extra time

 

Betting Picks:

  • Both Teams to Score
  • Germán Cano Anytime Scorer
  • Over 2.5 Goals

 

 

Why This Match Matters

This quarter-final is more than a route to the semi-final—it’s a statement of intent. Fluminense aim to reaffirm South American dominance, while Al-Hilal have a chance to become the first Asian side since 2019 to reach the last four.

 

With both teams brimming with confidence and capable of memorable moments, expect an intense, high-stakes contest in Orlando.