December 18, (THEWILL) – Brazilian facet Fluminense booked their place within the 2023 FIFA Membership World Cup ultimate with a hard-fought 2-0 victory over Egyptian champions Al Ahly on Monday. Enjoying of their first-ever Membership World Cup, Fluminense relied on a second-half penalty from Jhon Arias and a late aim from John Kennedy to see off the spirited problem from Al Ahly.
The match was evenly poised within the first half, however the recreation sprang to life after the break. Al Ahly regarded the higher facet and crafted a number of good possibilities, with Hussein El Shahat and Mohamed Hany going shut. But, in opposition to the run of play, Fluminense received a penalty when Marcelo was fouled within the field, permitting Arias to interrupt the impasse from the spot.
Al Ahly continued to press for an equaliser however have been uncovered on the counterattack. Veteran striker German Cano was denied by the goalkeeper earlier than teen John Kennedy clinched the win with a composed end within the 89th minute after a swift break.
In the long run, Fluminense’s high quality in entrance of aim proved the distinction. Nonetheless, they have been made to work exhausting for victory by an Al Ahly facet who dominated lengthy spells of the second half earlier than operating out of steam.
Fluminense now progressed to face both Manchester Metropolis or Japanese facet Urawa Purple Diamonds in Friday’s Membership World Cup ultimate in Riyadh. Their dream of being topped world champions of their debut outing stays very a lot alive.