Jhon Arias speaks to FIFA about Fluminense's triumph over Inter and what it would mean to win the FIFA Club World Cup 2025.
Fluminense defeated Inter 2-0 to reach the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 quarter-finals
Arias continued his excellent string of performances in the tournament
The Colombian midfielder took home his third Michelob Ultra Superior Player of the Match honour
South American teams have stood out in the FIFA Club World Cup 2025™ and arguably one of the most eye-catching players has been Jhon Arias of Fluminense FC.
The Colombian midfielder continued his excellent run of performances in the tournament with a sparkling display in Fluminense’s spectacular 2-0 win against FC Internazionale Milano in the Round of 16 at Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte.
It was Arias who served up the cross that resulted in German Cano’s opener, setting in motion another breathtaking performance going forward and in defence for the Brazilian side. The 27-year-old garnered his third Michelob Ultra Superior Player of the Match distinction to help his side reach the quarter-finals.
“I’m happy, happy for advancing, happy for this award, which is the fruit of work and effort,” said Arias to FIFA. “We played a great match. We faced a great opponent in Inter, who are a world power. And we leave here with a very important qualification [to the next round]. It’s very important for the club, Brazil and South America. So now we will enjoy it, enjoy with family, enjoy with our fans because it’s a reward for everyone.”
Arias was quick to deflect any personal attention, stressing that Monday’s majestic result was a group effort that will no doubt reverberate back in Brazil.
“I think the whole team played a great match,” said Arias. “We played a complete game. Like I said, it was a demanding match, so I dedicate it to my team-mates, our coaching staff, our directors, because I believe today was a victory that made all of Brazil proud.”