Islamabad, June 18, 2025: In a Group F showdown of Fluminense vs Dortmund on Tuesday at MetLife Stadium in New York’s outskirts, Fluminense held European giants Borussia Dortmund to a 0–0 draw, preserving the unbeaten run of Brazilian teams in this year’s Club World Cup.
From the outset, Fluminense looked lively and threatening. Dortmund keeper Gregor Kobel made a standout save in the first half, tipping Jhon Arias’s powerful strike around the post. Shortly after, Matheus Martinelli dragged a good opportunity just wide of the mark.
Leading the Brazilian side with calm authority was veteran defender Thiago Silva—40 years old and formerly of PSG and Chelsea—who marshalled the backline and spearheaded breakaway attacks. Midway through the second half, Fluminense’s counter-attack looked destined to break the deadlock, but the attempt by Agustin Canobbio was smothered by Kobel. The Dortmund goalkeeper then produced another crucial stop, diving low to thwart an effort from the dangerous Everaldo during a late flurry.
Fluminense earned their spot in the Club World Cup by winning the 2023 Copa Libertadores and showcased their continental credentials by standing firm against last year’s UEFA Champions League finalists.
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Brazilian clubs continue to impress in the tournament. Flamengo secured a 2–0 win over Tunisia’s Esperance on Monday and are now set to take on Chelsea. Meanwhile, Palmeiras opened their campaign with a goalless draw against Porto, and Botafogo—current Brazilian champions—defeated Seattle Sounders 2–1 on Sunday.
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For Dortmund, teenage midfielder Jobe Bellingham made his debut off the bench following his move from Sunderland, though the visitors found few clear-cut chances until Niklas Süle fired a long-range shot late in the game.
Looking ahead, Dortmund will seek their first victory in Group F against South Africa’s Mamelodi Sundowns, who face South Korea’s Ulsan Hyundai later today in Orlando.
