JEDDAH: Second half goals from Jhon Arias and John Kennedy secured Fluminense victory over Al Ahly and a place in the FIFA Club World Cup Saudi Arabia 2023 final.
Al Ahly flew out of the blocks, but it was Fluminense who had the first real chance, Arias employing impressive technique to volley the ball off the outside of the post.
Percy Tau appeared through on goal after 17 minutes, but Felipe Melo made a superb sliding challenge. Arias then hit the upright again, albeit via a deflection, after a cleverly-worked corner. Ten minutes before half-time Fabio made an excellent, one-handed save from a Kahraba header.
Fluminense would take the lead with a little under 20 minutes remaining. Marcelo – a four-time winner of this competition with Real Madrid – tricked his way inside the area with a delicious nutmeg, only to be upended by Tau. Arias stepped up to take the subsequent spot-kick and confidently fired the ball low to the goalkeeper’s right.
Tau would almost make amends straight away, though, when he met
a low cross from the left in the centre of the box. But his effort lacked power, and was easily saved by Fabio.
The Brazilians would then make the game safe in the final minute of normal time. John Kennedy – the hero of their Copa Libertadores win over Boca Juniors – was slid through down the right by Matheus Martinelli, cut the ball back on to his left foot and curled a delightful effort into the bottom corner.
Fluminense will now face either Urawa Red Diamonds or Manchester City in Friday’s final.
Source: Emirates News Agency