On a hot night in Miami, Fluminense adopts a cautious strategy and secures a spot in the next phase with a goalless draw

Fluminense is in the round of 16 of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup. In a game with little excitement, lots of heat, and controlled tension, the Rio de Janeiro team drew 0-0 with Mamelodi Sundowns on Wednesday night (25th), at Hard Rock Stadium, in Miami. The result secured Flu's second place in Group F, with five points — behind only Borussia Dortmund, who beat Al-Hilal in the final round.

The draw was enough to achieve the objective. And it was also a true reflection of a game in which Fluminense preferred not to take risks. With the advantage of a draw in their favor, the Tricolor took to the field with a more conservative stance, feeling the heat and relying on ball possession control to avoid surprises.

Start under pressure and decisive saves

Mamelodi Sundowns, despite already being eliminated, started with intensity and forced goalkeeper Fábio to work in the first few minutes. There were two difficult saves that kept the score at zero and avoided an early scare.

From the 20th minute, Fluminense began to balance the actions, touching the ball more in midfield and trying to slow down the pace of the game. Even so, clear chances were rare for both sides.

Second half: result management

After the break, the script remained the same. Fluminense maintained territorial control, but continued to create little. The best chance of the game was from Germán Cano, who hit the post with a shot from outside the area in the 25th minute.

From then on, Renato Gaúcho made changes to the team to strengthen the defensive system. The idea was clear: maintain the draw, avoid fatigue and guarantee qualification. Mamelodi tried to pressure in the final minutes, but was stopped by the well-positioned Tricolor defense.

Analysis and next steps

Tactically, Fluminense played a safe game. The defense was attentive, the midfield worked responsibly, and the team knew how to manage the draw. There was a lack of offensive inspiration, but there was discipline.

With the result, Flu advances to the round of 16, where they will face the leader of Group E — which will be defined between Inter Milan, River Plate and Monterrey. The match will be next Monday, June 30th, at 4 PM, in Charlotte.

The performance may not have been exciting, but the objective was achieved. Fluminense remains alive in the most important tournament on the planet. Now, it's time to recover and seek a more convincing performance in the next phase.