Coach Turns Underdogs Fluminense into Club World Cup Challengers
Once languishing near the bottom of the Brasileirão and written off by pundits and fans alike, Fluminense Football Club has defied all odds to become one of the most inspiring stories at the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup. At the heart of this miraculous transformation is veteran coach Renato “Gaúcho” Portaluppi, whose bold tactics and fearless mindset have turned a team of underachievers into genuine title contenders.
Just three months ago, Fluminense was battling poor form, low morale, and mounting criticism. Now, the Rio de Janeiro-based club is just one match away from the final, preparing to face Premier League giants Chelsea in the tournament’s semi-finals at the iconic MetLife Stadium.
From Crisis to Contention
When Renato Gaúcho took over the reins in April, Fluminense sat dangerously close to the relegation zone in the Brazilian league. Rather than play it safe, the 62-year-old coach adopted a philosophy rooted in chaos — prioritizing high-intensity pressing, positional fluidity, and relentless attacking transitions.
“We had nothing to lose,” said Renato at a pre-match press conference. “So we played like it. I told the boys: let’s make history or go down fighting.”
His message resonated. A series of tactical changes and renewed team spirit propelled Fluminense to a dream run in domestic and continental competitions, securing a late qualification spot for the Club World Cup after clinching the Copa Libertadores title in a dramatic final against Boca Juniors.
A Quarter-Final to Remember
Fluminense’s 2–1 quarter-final win over Saudi Arabia’s Al-Hilal on July 4 was emblematic of the team’s grit and flair. Midfielder Matheus Martinelli opened the scoring with a thunderous long-range strike, before substitute Hércules sealed the game late in the second half with a composed finish off a fast counterattack.
Veteran defender Thiago Silva, 40, who rejoined the club after a storied European career, played a pivotal role in organizing the backline. “This is more than football for us,” said Silva, visibly emotional after the match. “We’re playing with heart. Nobody expected us to be here, but we earned it.”
A Semi-Final Clash with Chelsea
Fluminense now face Chelsea FC in a high-stakes semi-final set for July 8. The narrative is irresistible: Silva faces his former club, Renato’s tactical chaos meets Premier League precision, and a team with minimal resources confronts a financial powerhouse.
FIFA has responded to waning North American ticket sales by dramatically slashing prices for the semi-final, with some seats now available for as low as $13.40 — a gesture aimed at bolstering crowd support for what’s expected to be a thrilling encounter.
The Renato Effect
Much of Fluminense’s revival is being credited to Renato’s charismatic leadership. Known for his animated sideline presence and sharp wit, he has become a cult figure among fans. His decision to instill belief in younger players while trusting the leadership of seasoned veterans has created a perfect storm of enthusiasm and experience.
“Renato gave us courage,” said winger Jhon Arias. “He reminded us that football is also about joy, risk, and identity.”
Analysts point out that this Fluminense side is not just surviving — it’s thriving with personality, unpredictability, and spirit. Despite the disparity in resources, Chelsea will not be taking this match lightly.
Dreaming of Glory
For a club that has often lived in the shadows of its more illustrious Brazilian rivals, Fluminense’s run in the Club World Cup is more than a Cinderella story. It’s a testament to resilience, belief, and the magic that football can still conjure.
“If we can dream it,” Renato declared, “we can play it into existence.”
Whether or not Fluminense lifts the trophy, their journey in 2025 has already etched itself into the annals of club folklore — led by a coach who refused to accept limits and a team that rose from the ashes to touch the stars.
