Fluminense veteran Marcelo: Courage and conviction carried us to Club World Cup final

Veteran full-back Marcelo says Fluminense’s “conviction and courage” carried them to a first Fifa Club World Cup final, and warned potential opponents Manchester City they are dreaming of lifting the trophy.

The former Real Madrid defender, one of the most decorated players in the world game, continued his personal quest for a fifth Club World Cup crown by helping Fluminense to a 2-0 win against Al Ahly in the semi-final in Jeddah on Monday night.

The current South American champions came through a thrilling, see-saw encounter at King Abdullah Sports City, with Jhon Arias and John Kennedy scoring deep into the second half.

The victory sets up a potential final on Friday against City, although Pep Guardiola’s European champions have to first get past Asian counterparts Urawa Red Diamonds on Tuesday.

Asked after the semi-final success for the secret to Fluminense’s historic achievement, Marcelo said: “Many things. First, the conviction that we can do it. Also, the dreams of going far when this group of players was put together.

“Then a lot of courage to play, a clear idea on the part of the coach [Fernando Diniz, also the current Brazil caretaker manager], a lot of mobility among us, players with very good technique, and a lot of potential among those who are young.

“And we have also achieved independence from who our rivals are on the pitch, because we have our own style, and we always want to be Fluminense.”

Marcelo, 35, rejoined his boyhood club in February, following five months with Olympiacos in Greece. Prior to that, the former Brazil international spent a hugely successful 15 years at Madrid, in which he won, among other titles, six La Ligas, five Uefa Champions Leagues, and the Club World Cup in 2014, 2016, 2017