This result confirmed the exit of all four African representatives – Mamelodi Sundowns, Al Ahly, Wydad Casablanca, and Esperance – from the tournament.
Sundowns needed a win to progress to the next stage, but the stalemate meant they finished with four points, not enough to advance. Fluminense, on the other hand, only required a draw to secure their spot in the Round of 16, finishing second behind Borussia Dortmund in their group.
Despite creating early chances, Sundowns were unable to find the breakthrough, while Fluminense grew into the match and came close to scoring through Germán Cano, who hit the post. The draw was a fair reflection of the teams’ positions, with Fluminense’s experience and quality ultimately paying off.
In a match that now appears to be for pride, Wydad Casablanca will take on Al Ain on Thursday, as both teams have already been eliminated from the competition.
The exit of African teams marks the end of their campaigns in the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, leaving fans to eagerly await the next opportunity for the continent’s clubs to make an impact in the tournament.
