Mamelodi Sundowns Exit Club World Cup After Brave Draw With Fluminense

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Mamelodi Sundowns have bowed out of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup after a goalless draw against Brazil’s Fluminense at the Hard Rock Stadium in Florida on Wednesday evening. Despite controlling much of the game and boasting superior possession, the South African champions couldn’t find the goal required to secure progression from Group F.

The result saw Fluminense edge into the last 16 behind Borussia Dortmund, while Sundowns joined fellow African clubs Al Ahly, Wydad Casablanca and Esperance in making early exits from the competition. It was a bitter pill to swallow for the Tshwane outfit, who once again showed their quality but fell short of their target.

Narrow Margins in a Tense Encounter

Fluminense, needing only a point to advance, offered little going forward but remained disciplined. Their best moments came courtesy of Jhon Arias, whose first-half shot flashed across goal, and German Cano, who tested Sundowns shortly after the break.

Yet it was Sundowns who dictated the pace, dictated the tempo, and pinned back the Brazilian side for large periods. In front of 14,312 spectators, the South African side were composed and creative—but lacked the clinical edge to convert their chances into goals.

Cardoso’s Praise Amid Disappointment

While the result ended their campaign, head coach Miguel Cardoso struck a proud tone after the match.

“We’re disappointed because we came here with a clear mission,” Cardoso admitted. “But I’m extremely proud of the players. We return home stronger, and the way we played reflects our growth on this global stage.”

Cardoso was quick to highlight the strength of Sundowns’ opponents, urging critics to recognise the level at which the team performed.

“Look at the calibre of teams in our group—Fluminense, Dortmund, Ulsan. We faced them toe-to-toe. We leave with four points and only one loss. That speaks volumes about the character and quality we showed.”

Borussia Dortmund Clinch Top Spot

In the other Group F clash, Bundesliga giants Borussia Dortmund edged Ulsan HD 1-0 thanks to a first-half goal from Daniel Svensson. Played in sweltering heat in Cincinnati, Dortmund’s victory secured them top spot in the group and a place in the knockout rounds, alongside second-placed Fluminense.

Dortmund coach Niko Kovac praised his team’s performance under tough conditions, noting that the extreme temperatures tested players’ stamina and focus. With just over 8,000 spectators, including dignitaries like FIFA President Gianni Infantino and US Vice President JD Vance, the Germans held their nerve to book their last-16 ticket.

Fluminense Hold On, Sundowns Pay the Price

Fluminense’s strategy seemed clear: frustrate Sundowns and absorb pressure. With Sundowns needing all three points, the Brazilian side sat back, knowing a draw was enough. Despite the ball often being in the opposition half, the South Africans couldn’t breach the defensive wall.

It was a tactical chess match that suited Fluminense. While Sundowns dominated possession and moved the ball well in midfield, they lacked the spark to unlock their opponent’s defence—a key missing piece on a night that could have rewritten the club’s history.

Pride, Passion and Perspective

In his post-match remarks, Cardoso addressed both supporters and critics, reminding all of the club’s identity and responsibility to the people it represents.

“Our football reflects our supporters. It’s their joy and passion. We play the way we do because it connects us to our community,” said Cardoso. “There will always be criticism, but even that makes us stronger. When people speak against us, we grow.”

Sundowns’ journey may have ended earlier than hoped, but the club leaves the global stage with its reputation enhanced. They stood tall against giants, stayed true to their identity, and flew the South African flag high in a tournament dominated by world football powerhouses.

Hearts Full, Heads Held High

Though their Club World Cup journey is over, Mamelodi Sundowns return to the country with much to be proud of. Their tactical discipline, collective unity, and ability to challenge continental champions on foreign soil reflect a side on the rise—one whose story is far from over.