The final matchday of Group F in the Club World Cup takes place on Wednesday, with three teams competing for the remaining two spots in the round of 16. This includes a crucial matchup between South Africa`s Mamelodi Sundowns and Brazil`s Fluminense, squaring off at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens.
Currently leading the group, Fluminense can secure their place in the round of 16 with just a draw on Wednesday, positioning them as strong contenders alongside Borussia Dortmund for advancement. Mamelodi Sundowns face a more challenging path. They must achieve a win on Wednesday and rely on Borussia Dortmund losing to Ulsan HD – a scenario deemed unlikely since the South Korean side has already been eliminated from the tournament.
However, this doesn`t mean Sundowns should be dismissed. Despite their 4-3 loss to Dortmund in their previous group match, they presented a significant challenge to the German club. With qualification for the next round on the line, coupled with the incentive of an additional $7.5 million in prize money, they possess the potential to maintain a competitive performance for another 90 minutes.
Here is essential information before the game:
How to watch Mamelodi Sundowns vs. Fluminense
- Date: Wednesday, June 25
- Time: 3 p.m. ET
- Location: Hard Rock Stadium — Miami Gardens, Florida
- Live stream: Watch on DAZN (for free)
- Odds: Mamelodi Sundowns +310; Draw +260; Fluminense 125
Group F scenarios for advancement
- Fluminense advance to the round of 16 with:
- A win or draw against Mamelodi Sundowns.
- A loss to Mamelodi Sundowns AND Borussia Dortmund losing to Ulsan HD by a goal margin equal to or greater than Fluminense`s loss.
- Borussia Dortmund advance to the round of 16 with:
- A win or draw against Ulsan HD.
- A loss to Ulsan HD AND Fluminense winning or drawing against Mamelodi Sundowns.
- Mamelodi Sundowns advance to the round of 16 with:
- A win against Fluminense AND Borussia Dortmund losing to Ulsan HD.
- Ulsan HD: Eliminated from the competition.
Predicted lineups
Mamelodi Sundowns: Ronwen Williams, Khuliso Mudau, Keanu Cupido, Divine Lunga, Teboho Mokoena, Lucas Ribeiro Costa, Themba Zwane, Marcelo Allende, Tashreeq Matthews, Iqraam Rayners
Fluminense: Fabio, Guga, Thiago Silva, Juan Pablo Freytes, Gabriel Fuentes, Matheus Martinelli, Hércules, Jhon Arias, Paulo Henrique Ganso, Kevin Serna, German Cano
Player to watch
Jhon Arias, Fluminense: Fluminense`s attack finally found its rhythm in their 4-2 victory over Ulsan HD on Saturday, largely spearheaded by Jhon Arias. The Colombian international contributed a goal and an assist in that match, propelling his team to the top of Group F. He is arguably the most likely player to help them maintain that position. Fluminense has multiple scoring threats, but Arias stands out and could potentially earn his third player of the match award.
Storyline to watch
Can Sundowns cause an upset?: Fluminense enters this match as the clear favorites, not only to win but also to progress, for valid reasons. However, there`s a compelling argument that Sundowns should not be underestimated. Wednesday`s game will reveal whether their attacking display in the 4-3 thriller against Dortmund was an anomaly or a style they can replicate under high pressure. Should results fall in their favor, though improbable, they would likely be the sole African team in the last 16. Given their own offensive potential and Fluminense`s defensive vulnerabilities seen in their 4-2 win over Ulsan HD, the possibility of a chaotic and surprising outcome on Wednesday exists.
Prediction
While a match between two attacking teams offers inherent entertainment, the odds heavily favor Fluminense. Expect the Brazilian side to advance with relative comfort and continue their country`s strong performance streak in the Club World Cup. Pick: Mamelodi Sundowns 1, Fluminense 3
Dominic Ashworth