Borussia Dortmund were held to a frustrating 0-0 draw by Brazilian side Fluminense in their opening Group F fixture at the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, played at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Despite enjoying more possession, the Bundesliga giants were second-best for large spells as Fluminense created the better chances and showcased their South American flair.
First Half: Fluminense Dominate, Dortmund Struggle to Settle
Fluminense, led by veteran defender Thiago Silva, started brightly and dictated the tempo with sharp passing and aggressive pressing. The Brazilian side registered seven shots in the first half, while Dortmund failed to register a single effort on target before the break.
Jhon Arias and Matheus Martinelli were particularly lively, with the former forcing a smart save from Gregor Kobel and the latter narrowly missing the target from distance. Dortmund’s best moment came when Karim Adeyemi flashed a low cross across the box, but Serhou Guirassy couldn’t connect.
Second Half: Kobel Heroics and Missed Opportunities
The second half followed a similar pattern, with Fluminense continuing to threaten. In the 59th minute, Everaldo broke through on goal but opted to square to Agustín Canobbio, whose shot was saved by Kobel. Moments later, Kobel produced a stunning double save — first parrying Everaldo’s deflected strike and then denying Nonato on the rebound, though the latter was flagged offside.
Dortmund introduced Jobe Bellingham for his club debut, and the 18-year-old showed composure in midfield. However, the Germans lacked cutting edge in the final third. A late long-range effort from Niklas Süle was their only real threat as the match fizzled out.
Match Stats:
- Possession: Dortmund 55% – Fluminense 45%
- Shots: Fluminense 14 – Dortmund 7
- Shots on Target: Fluminense 5 – Dortmund 3
- Corners: Fluminense 7 – Dortmund 3
- Yellow Cards: 4 total (Bensebaini, Couto – Dortmund; Martinelli, Nonato – Fluminense)
Player of the Match: Gregor Kobel
The Swiss goalkeeper was the standout performer, making five crucial saves to keep Dortmund in the game. His reflexes and positioning were vital in securing a point for the German side.
Group F Standings After Matchday 1:
- Ulsan Hyundai – 3 pts
- Dortmund – 1 pt
- Fluminense – 1 pt
- Mamelodi Sundowns – 0 pts
What’s Next?
- Dortmund face Mamelodi Sundowns on June 21 in Cincinnati.
- Fluminense take on Ulsan Hyundai at MetLife Stadium the same day.
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