Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the FIFA Club World Cup match.
Inter Milan topped their group, although their displays were not without flaws. Fluminense reached the knockout stage with just one win and failed to score in two of their three group matches.
Inter Milan
Inter Milan showed solid defensive organisation throughout the group phase but were less effective in attack. They scored only five goals in three outings and had to come from behind twice. Their 2:0 win against River Plate was only secured after their opponents were reduced to ten men. Although the Italians have shown resilience, they are currently dealing with several absences: Benjamin Pavard, Yann-Aurel Bisseck, Hakan Çalhanoğlu, Davide Frattesi, and Piotr Zieliński are all ruled out, while Marcus Thuram and Matteo Darmian remain doubts. Nevertheless, Inter Milan have been defensively reliable, conceding just two goals in the group stage.
Fluminense
Fluminense progressed to the knockout round following a goalless draw against Mamelodi Sundowns, during which they failed to register a single shot on target — their second scoreless match of the tournament. Their only win came in a 4:2 result against Ulsan Hyundai FC, where they conceded twice despite the South Korean team generating just 0.63 xG. The Brazilians have adopted a pragmatic approach — seven of their last nine matches have featured under 3.5 goals.
Inter Milan vs Fluminense Prediction
Inter Milan possess greater depth despite their injury list. Fluminense narrowly advanced from the group and are unlikely to match a more composed and structured opponent. Both sides usually take part in low-scoring encounters, and this fixture is expected to be no different.
