Mamelodi Sundowns’ 2025 FIFA Club World Cup journey came to a halt in Florida after a goalless stalemate with Brazilian outfit Fluminense. Despite dominating possession for large stretches at the Hard Rock Stadium, the Betway Premiership champions couldn’t convert their superiority into the victory required to progress from Group F.
With over 14,000 fans in attendance, the match delivered plenty of tension but no goals. Fluminense’s Jhon Arias fired wide in the first half, and teammate Germán Cano went close after the break. Sundowns, on the other hand, showcased slick passing and territorial control, but struggled to break down a disciplined Brazilian defence.
Miguel Cardoso Proud Despite Early Exit
Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso admitted the result was disappointing but remained upbeat about his side’s performance on the world stage.
“We’re not happy because our goal was to progress, but I am proud of the level we showed,” said Cardoso after the match. “We return home stronger, having tested ourselves against top sides like Fluminense and Borussia Dortmund.”
The Tshwane giants finish their group campaign with four points, having earlier defeated Ulsan HD but suffered a narrow 4-3 loss to Dortmund. Cardoso urged critics to look beyond results and assess the quality of football displayed.
“People should study the teams we played against. Fluminense are Copa Libertadores champions, Dortmund are a European powerhouse. Competing with them shows our growth. We leave with our heads held high.”
Brazilian Side Advances With Minimum Effort
Fluminense, knowing a point was enough to reach the last 16, appeared content to absorb pressure and play conservatively. Their defensive approach paid off, and they now advance alongside group leaders Dortmund, who edged Ulsan HD 1-0 in Cincinnati, courtesy of a first-half strike by Daniel Svensson.
The German side’s win was witnessed by a modest crowd, which included FIFA president Gianni Infantino and US Vice President JD Vance. Dortmund coach Niko Kovac praised his players’ resilience in the sweltering heat, where temperatures soared above 36°C.
All African Sides Eliminated in Group Stages
With Sundowns’ exit, all four African representatives — including Al Ahly, Wydad Casablanca, and Esperance — have been knocked out before the knockout rounds. It’s a disappointing outcome for the continent, but Cardoso believes Sundowns’ performance has enhanced their international reputation.
“We played beautiful football. That’s our identity — it’s what our supporters expect. When we express ourselves on the pitch, we dance together with our fans. It’s about joy, unity and representing who we are.”
Addressing likely criticism, Cardoso said: “There will be haters back home, but we grow even stronger when people doubt us. Our people in Mamelodi and across the country understand what this club means. We represented them with pride.”
Mamelodi Sundowns Focus Turns to Domestic and Continental Ambitions
The Pretoria-based outfit now shifts attention to the upcoming domestic season and CAF Champions League, buoyed by their competitive showings on the world stage. While the Club World Cup dream may have ended prematurely, Sundowns return home with lessons learned, valuable experience gained, and their status as one of Africa’s elite clubs firmly intact.
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