Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the 2023 FIFA Club World Cup match.
Man City
Manchester City have had tough times recently. They have won only 1 out of the last 6 Premier League games. They had been conceding goals in 7 consecutive Premier League matches before beating Urawa Red Diamonds at the FIFA Club World Cup. The Manchester City conceded 13 goals during this period, which is twice more than in 10 Premier League rounds before.
Fluminense
This is the first FIFA Club World Cup final for Fluminense in their history. The Brazilian side beat Al Ahly Cairo (2:0) in the previous round. However, this wasn’t a really easy win. Fluminense scored their first goal only in the 71st minute from the penalty spot, and they weren’t the best team in xG.
Man City – Fluminense prediction
Manchester City were named a Team of the Year by BBC prior to this game. They can become the first English side to win 5 trophies within 365 days. This shouldn’t be very hard for the Citizens, as their opponent is Fluminense from the Brazilian league, which is obviously weaker than the English one. Besides, even in their domestic championship, Fluminense took only 13 points out of possible 57 in the away games last season.
I think that Manchester City’s defence, which has been performing poorly recently, will concede again. However, the Citizens are just a better team, and they will win the game eventually.
