The FIFA Club World Cup 2025 is underway, and the round of 16 continues with a compelling match between Italian giants Inter Milan and Brazilian side Fluminense. The game is set to take place at the Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte, North Carolina, with kickoff scheduled for 3:00 p.m. ET (7:00 p.m. GMT). For fans in India, the match will begin at 12:30 am IST on July 1.
Inter Milan enters the match after finishing top of Group E with seven points. Their journey through the group stage included a 1-1 draw with Monterrey, a 2-1 victory over Urawa Reds, and a 2-0 win against River Plate. Fluminense, on the other hand, advanced from Group F, securing five points with a 4-2 win over Ulsan and goalless draws against Borussia Dortmund and Mamelodi Sundowns. This is only the second time these two teams have met, with their first encounter being a friendly match in 1961 which ended in a 1-1 draw.
Inter Milan is eager to claim some glory after a disappointing end to their domestic season and a defeat against PSG in the Champions League final in May. Under the guidance of their new coach, Cristian Chivu, Inter aims to regroup and make a strong statement in this tournament. Chivu acknowledged Fluminense's quality and experience, emphasizing the importance of focus and capitalizing on their opponent's mistakes. He also praised the mentality of Brazilian teams and the quality of Brazilian players.
Fluminense hopes to leverage their attack-minded style and experience to cause an upset. Captain Thiago Silva will be instrumental in their efforts. Despite potentially flying under the radar, the Brazilians are confident in their ability to replicate their earlier performances and exploit any weaknesses in the Inter Milan side.
In terms of team news, Inter Milan will welcome back French striker Marcus Thuram, who has recovered from an adductor issue. However, young striker Pio Esposito is doubtful due to muscle fatigue. Key players such as Hakan Calhanoglu, Benjamin Pavard, Piotr Zielinski, and Yann Bisseck have already returned to Italy, having been ruled out for the remainder of the tournament.
The match holds significant weight as the winner will advance to the Quarterfinals to face either Manchester City or Al Hilal. The total prize money for the Club World Cup is $1 billion, with the champions set to earn up to $125 million.
For viewers in India, the Inter Milan vs. Fluminense match will not be telecast on TV but can be streamed live on DAZN.