New York, July 8 (H.S.): Fluminense's manager Renato Gaucho expressed the team's ambition to make history ahead of their FIFA Club World Cup semifinal against Chelsea. He acknowledged the financial disparities, noting that Fluminense has less than 10% of the financial capacity compared to top European clubs like Chelsea, Real Madrid, and Paris Saint-Germain. However, he emphasized that confidence, discipline, and hard work have propelled the team this far. Fluminense, often seen as the ugly duckling, has proven they can compete at this level, having reached the semifinals by defeating Inter Milan and Al Hilal.

Renato praised Chelsea's quick and technically skilled players, particularly their effective wingers and striker Joao Pedro. He reinforced his team's aggressive style, focusing on limiting opponents' strengths while maintaining an open play when in possession. Although he did not disclose his starting lineup, he highlighted the strategic flexibility that led to positive results, having changed formations twice during the tournament.

The semifinal will be held at MetLife Stadium, with the winner facing either Paris Saint-Germain or Real Madrid in the final. Renato conveyed that reaching the semifinals is not enough for them; they aim to go beyond and reach the final, stating, Our goal is beyond that – we want to reach the final.

Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar