Italian powerhouse Inter Milan is set to clash with Fluminense on Monday in a compelling fixture during the Club World Cup round of 16. Inter, known as the Nerazzurri, secured their spot in the knockout phase with a 2-0 victory over River Plate in their final group match. The goals came courtesy of promising Italian talent Francesco Pio Esposito and Alessandro Bastoni. The squad, managed by Cristian Chivu, now takes on Fluminense. There`s also the potential for them to face their former manager Simone Inzaghi in a later round, provided Al-Hilal eliminates Manchester City. Below is a preview of the match, including viewing information and more:
Match Details and Odds
- Date: Monday, June 30
- Location: Bank of America Stadium — Charlotte, North Carolina
- Odds: Inter -145; Draw +240; Fluminense +430
Possible Lineups
Inter XI: Sommer; Darmian, Acerbi, Bastoni; Dumfries, Barella, Asllani, Mkhitaryan, Augusto; Thuram, Martinez.
Fluminense XI: Fabio; Xavier, Silva, Freytes, Rene; Hercules, Martinelli; Arias, Nonato, Canobbio; Everaldo.
Player to Watch
Lautaro Martinez, Inter`s captain, is the standout player to watch. He has already netted two goals in the tournament`s first three matches. Despite not scoring against River Plate, he will be crucial for Inter`s push to the quarterfinals, especially with young prospect Esposito sidelined by a minor injury and Marcus Thuram`s participation in doubt as he recovers.
Key Match Narrative
A significant point of concern is the potential impact of weather. Forecasts for Monday in Charlotte include the risk of storms. This is particularly relevant as a recent round of 16 match between Chelsea and Benfica at the same venue was suspended for over two hours due to lightning and thunder. Chelsea`s manager, Enzo Maresca, expressed frustration after the lengthy delay, calling the situation a `joke` and questioning the suitability of the location for the competition given the weather disruptions.
Match Prediction
Despite facing some injury concerns, Inter is favored to win against Fluminense. However, the match is expected to be a close contest. Predicted score: Inter 2, Fluminense 1.
