Mamelodi Sundowns’ run at the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup ended at the group stage as they became the fourth African team to suffer early elimination on Wednesday.
Sundowns put in an impressive performance against Brazilian side Fluminense but lived to rue their missed chances as a goalless draw meant they went out after finishing third in Group F on four points.
Sundowns were the better team in the first half with the first chance falling to Lucas Ribeiro whose attempt from outside the box went out.
PSL champions pay for missed chances
Two minutes later, Ribeiro managed a beautiful defence-splitting pass to Tashreeq Matthews, playing the winger through, but he somehow failed to score past veteran goalkeeper Fabio in the Fluminense goal.
A minute later, Divine Lunga forced a good near post save from Fabio after Matthews turned provider in what was the best spell in the game for Sundowns.
In the 28th minute, Iqraam Rayners had a glorious chance when he was played in by Ribeiro but a heavy touch took the ball away from his feet when he needed good control to pull the trigger.
After the break, it was a subdued performance from Sundowns as their levels dropped with Fluminense happy to sit behind the ball and let the PSL champions play.
Fluminense had the best chance of the half which fell to German Cano but the Argentine striker could not find the target on the volley.
Sundowns leave with heads held high
Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso, who had taken off Teboho Mokoena at half-time for Jayden Adams, then starting shuffling his pack with Arthur Sales coming in for Matthews, Peter Shalulile for Ribeiro and later Themba Zwane went off for Kutlwano Lethlaku.
However, these attacking changes could not turn the tide as Fluminense stayed resolute at the back to see off the game and seal their place in the Round of 16 after finishing second in Group F on five points.
Borussia Dortmund, who had beaten Sundowns 4-3 on Saturday, finished top of the group with seven points after a 1-0 win over Ulsan HD.
Sundowns joined Al Ahly, Wydad Athletic Club and Esperance on the plane home as all four African teams suffered group stage elimination although the South African champions were the most impressive team at the Club World Cup from the continent.
