FIFA Club World Cup 2025 - Fluminense bank point to secure progress

Miami Gardens: Fluminense FC have qualified for the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 knockout phase after battling out a tense 0-0 draw with Mamelodi Sundowns FC on Wednesday.

The Brazilian side needed a point to book their place in the last 16 and they successfully shut out Sundowns, who required victory to extend their stay in the USA.

Fluminense have advanced as Group F runners-up, with Borussia Dortmund beating Ulsan HD in the section’s other fixture on Wednesday to secure top spot.

Sundowns created the best opportunity of the early stages, with Tashreeq Matthews racing in on goal and forcing a superb one-handed save from Fabio.

Clear chances were few and far between throughout the first half, though, with Jhon Arias going closest for Fluminense when his drive flashed just wide.

The woodwork then denied German Cano close to the hour mark. He improvised brilliantly to meet Arias’ cross on the volley, but his shot cracked against the bottom of the post.

With a draw enough for Fluminense, they were content to get men behind the ball as Sundowns chased a winner. The South African champions, however, failed to build up a head of steam and struggled to create any meaningful opportunities.

Fluminense will face the winners of Group E in Charlotte on Monday.

Source: FIFA / AFP

Fluminense bank point to secure progress

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