The seasoned goalkeeper plays a decisive role and proves vital in the Tricolor Carioca’s historic triumph over Inter Milan in the Round of 16.
Fluminense carved its name in history by ousting Inter Milan in the Round of 16 at the Club World Cup on Monday (30), with a 2-0 victory. Alongside their effective offensive display, the Brazilian team benefited from an extraordinary performance by goalkeeper Fábio, who, at 44 years old, continues to compete at an exceptional level.
The veteran shot-stopper delivered crucial saves throughout the game, preserving the team’s lead on the scoreboard. His performance earned widespread acclaim on social media after Flu’s advancement:
NÃO TEM COMO NORMALIZAR
— DataFut (@DataFutebol) June 30, 2025
44 ANOS. pic.twitter.com/BmROimAKM3
In addition to Fábio, Fluminense saw a standout performance from 40-year-old Thiago Silva and the rest of the defensive unit. On the offensive side, Germán Cano scored early, giving the Brazilian side the lead, while Hércules sealed the decisive victory in the closing minutes.
Fábio is also a revered figure at Cruzeiro, where he played during a loan stint in 1999/2000 and from 2005 to 2021 in a permanent capacity. At the club, he amassed 12 titles, including three Copa do Brasil trophies and two Brasileirão Série A.
When many believed the goalkeeper was close to ending his career, he made a surprising move to Fluminense and became a key figure for yet another major Brazilian football club. Since joining the Rio-based team in 2022, Fábio has already claimed four trophies, including the Copa Libertadores title alongside Fernando Diniz in 2023.