Brave But Out: Sundowns Exit Club World Cup After Holding Fluminense

Mamelodi Sundowns may be out of the FIFA Club World Cup, but they’re heading home with their reputation enhanced and their heads held high.

The South African champions played out a tense 0-0 draw against Brazilian giants Fluminense on Wednesday night at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami. It was a match they needed to win to reach the knockout rounds. Despite dominating possession and showing great composure on the ball, the one goal they needed never came.

A Night of Near Misses

The match had its moments. Fluminense captain Jhon Arias came close in the first half, flashing a shot wide of the goal, while German Cano also had a chance after the break. But it was Sundowns who looked hungrier for long spells, dictating tempo and pushing high up the pitch. In front of 14,000 fans, they fought for every inch.

Coach Miguel Cardoso reflected with both disappointment and pride. “We are not happy. We had a clear objective in this match,” he said. “But I am very proud of the level the players performed at. We go home stronger than when we arrived.”

No African Teams in the last 16

Sundowns’ exit also closes the door for Africa at this year’s expanded tournament, as all four clubs from the continent have now been eliminated before the round of 16.

Elsewhere in Group F, Borussia Dortmund sealed top spot with a 1-0 win over Ulsan HD, courtesy of a first-half strike from Daniel Svensson. With back-to-back one-goal victories – including a thrilling 4-3 win over Sundowns – Dortmund advance alongside Fluminense.

That match in Cincinnati saw fewer than 10,000 fans in attendance but had high-profile guests including FIFA president Gianni Infantino and US Vice President JD Vance. Still, the spotlight felt brighter in Miami, where Sundowns went toe-to-toe with South American royalty.

Local Pride, Global Impact

Back in South Africa, fans took to social media to express their admiration for Masandawana’s efforts. Many praised the team for standing their ground against elite international competition and showing the kind of skill and strategy that has made them a force in African football.

For the PSL champions, this Club World Cup run was more than just about results – it was about showing that South African football belongs on the global stage.

They may be out of the tournament, but Sundowns leave the United States with dignity, lessons, and a sense of unfinished business.

Source:IOL

Read More: “We Belonged on That Pitch”: Mamelodi Sundowns Win Hearts in Brave Dortmund Battle

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