Mamelodi Sundowns’ 2025 FIFA Club World Cup campaign ended in heartbreak after a goalless draw against Brazil’s Fluminense in Miami on Wednesday. The stalemate saw Masandawana finish third in Group F with four points, one short of qualification.
Needing victory to progress, the South African champions dominated possession against the Copa Libertadores winners but failed to convert chances in sweltering Florida conditions. Tashreeq Matthews and Fluminense’s Jhon Arias both squandered golden opportunities in a tense first half that lived up to manager Renato Gaúcho’s pre-match “chess match” prediction.
While Sundowns controlled the tempo, their inability to seriously test goalkeeper Fábio proved costly. The result was compounded by Borussia Dortmund’s 1-0 win over Ulsan Hyundai in the parallel group fixture, eliminating the Brazilians’ last remaining challengers.
The exit marks a bittersweet tournament for Rhulani Mokwena’s side, who showed impressive tactical discipline against elite opposition but ultimately paid for their lack of cutting edge. Fluminense progressed alongside Dortmund despite resting veteran defender Thiago Silva for the crucial clash.
Sundowns now return home with questions about missed opportunities, having become the first South African side to earn points at the modern Club World Cup format while demonstrating they can compete with global heavyweights.
