Fluminense’s Kevin Serna is rounding into form as the team regains momentum this season. The Colombian winger has become a key outlet in the build-up play, providing pace and late runs that help unlock defenses. On Saturday, he delivered assists for Canobbio and Cano in the 2-0 win over Fortaleza at Maracanã, a performance that underscored his growing importance as Fluminense advances in the Brasileirão. Now Serna has another big stage in sight: a pivotal cup tie in South America and a chance to showcase himself again in knockout football.
On Tuesday night, Fluminense, riding a wave of confidence, returns to action against América de Cali for the second leg of the Copa Sudamericana round of 16, scheduled for 9:30 p.m. local time. The Brazilian club is expected to line Serna up as a starter, with coach Renato Gaúcho likely to lean on him as a scoring and creative option as the team chase qualification.
His influence extended to the Copa do Brasil as well, where he played a direct part in both goals of the 2-1 victory over Internacional at Beira-Rio in the first leg. In the opener, Serna’s strike hit the post before Everaldo pounced on the rebound. For the second, Serna provided the assist for Everaldo after a sharp run down the right, beating two defenders in a breathtaking sequence.
In the Sudamericana, Serna had already put his stamp on the competition by scoring one of the goals in the 2-0 victory over Once Caldas that sealed Fluminense’s passage to the knockout rounds. It’s worth noting that his participation in Brazil’s top league had been limited prior to this recent surge, a situation that even drew a pointed remark from his agent toward the coach. Yet in recent matches, the winger has re-emerged as a decisive contributor.
Physically and technically, Serna appears to have sharpened his form. In the current season, he has appeared 42 times, with 7 goals and 5 assists, meaning he has been involved in 12 goals for Fluminense in 2025.
What this means for Fluminense
– Serna’s renewed impact could tilt tactical balance in knockout matches, providing a high-pace option on the flanks and a reliable source of assists for teammates like Cano and Canobbio.
– If he starts against América de Cali, Fluminense may rely on his width and quick combination play to threaten from wide areas and sustain pressure late in games.
– The ongoing improvement suggests Serna could remain a fixture in the lineup as Fluminense navigate the South American and domestic cup campaigns.
Additional notes
– Watch for how Serna links with Canobbio on the left and Cano in central areas; their chemistry could become a defining feature in Fluminense’s attack in these crucial fixtures.
– The current form boost comes at a good time as Fluminense looks to maximize chances in both the Sudamericana and the Brazil Cup while maintaining league momentum.
Summary: Kevin Serna is back to contributing decisively for Fluminense, balancing goals and assists as he grows into a linchpin of Renato Gaúcho’s attacking plan. His creativity and speed on the wings could prove pivotal in the upcoming Sudamericana Round of 16 return and the Brazil Cup push. Keep an eye on his involvement against América de Cali and in the broader knockout phase as Fluminense aims for more success.