Fluminense’s goalless draw with Mamelodi Sundowns at the Hard Rock Stadium has secured their place in the last 16 of the FIFA Club World Cup and confirmed the early exit of all four African representatives.
With Al Ahly, Wydad Casablanca, and Espérance de Tunis already eliminated, Sundowns represented the continent’s final hope. However, the South African champions needed a victory to overtake Fluminense in Group F, but despite a promising start, they were unable to find the decisive goal.
Rulani Mokwena’s men created several early chances, with Lucas Ribeiro, Tashreeq Matthews, and Divine Lunga all testing Fluminense goalkeeper Fábio, who remained resolute. The Brazilian side gradually grew into the game, with Ignacio, Jhon Arias, and Nonato threatening before the break.
After the interval, Fluminense adopted a more cautious approach, sitting deep and playing on the counter. They nearly broke the deadlock when Germán Cano struck the post, while Sundowns’ attacking efforts were frequently thwarted by offside flags and miscommunication in the final third. Renato Gaúcho’s side ultimately held firm to earn the point required, finishing second behind Borussia Dortmund and booking a last-16 tie against the winner of Group E.
Sundowns bow out with four points and their pride intact, but the revamped Club World Cup continues to elude African success, as all Brazilian clubs progress to the knockout stage.
Source: Flashscore
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