Soccer

Nonato: Brazilian success not a surprise

FIFA

25, Jun 25

Nonato: Brazilian success not a surprise

Fluminense qualify for FIFA Club World Cup last 16
All four Brazilian clubs have reached knockout stage
Nonato tells FIFA: This is a unique moment in my life

The Brazilian dominance at the FIFA Club World Cup 2025™ shows no sign of ending any time soon with Fluminense FC reaching the Round of 16 following their battling goalless draw against Mamelodi Sundowns FC at Miami's Hard Rock Stadium.

Fluminense made it a full set of Brazilian clubs in the knockout stages — joining compatriots SE Palmeiras, Botafogo and CR Flamengo — by finishing as runners-up in Group F behind Borussia Dortmund.

What is all the more remarkable about the performances of the Brazilian quartet is their dominance in the group stage, with just one defeat in 12 games combined. They have had some incredible results too, with Botafogo defeating UEFA Champions League winners Paris Saint-Germain and Flamengo comfortably beating Chelsea FC.

The world has been put on notice about just how strong the Brazilian domestic championship is — but the success of its four clubs comes as little surprise to its star players.

"It is an incredible moment for me, for the team, for the fans, for our country," Fluminense star Nonato told FIFA. "We have four Brazilian teams in the Round of 16 so the feeling is amazing. We have to enjoy it now, rest a bit but enjoy this moment because it is unique for the history of the club.

"For us it is not a surprise (that the Brazilian teams are succeeding) because we already knew our level of play, our quality," added Nonato. "This tournament gives us an opportunity to show the quality of the Brazilian championship.

"I think it's our purpose to be here and show our level, our quality of players, how we play. I'm very happy for our team the way we played."

The Brazilian fans have also been stars of the Club World Cup in their own right, supporting their clubs in big numbers in stadiums across the USA.

"The fans have put on a show," said Nonato. "They are holding our team, pushing us forward so I think it is unbelievable the synergy between the team and fans. This is a unique moment in my life."