Mamelodi Sundowns chase historic FIFA Club World Cup qualification as they face Fluminense in decisive clash in Saudi Arabia

Mamelodi Sundowns chase historic FIFA Club World Cup qualification as they face Fluminense in decisive clash in Saudi Arabia

Mamelodi Sundowns have reached a defining moment in their FIFA Club World Cup journey.

After an intense group stage campaign, it all comes down to one final match—and the stakes couldn’t be higher.

The South African side is just one win away from writing a new chapter in its history.

They’ll be facing Brazil’s Fluminense in their final Group F fixture, and the message is loud and clear: win, or go home.

A Mixed Bag of Results So Far

Sundowns kicked off their Club World Cup campaign with a solid 1-0 win over Uldan, giving fans hope that they were ready to go the distance.

But things got complicated in their second match when they fell short in a dramatic 4-3 defeat to Borussia Dortmund.

That loss didn’t eliminate them, though—it just raised the pressure.

With all three points from Uldan and none from Dortmund, Sundowns now sit level with Fluminense at three points each.

Dortmund, meanwhile, top the group with four points from two games.

Only One Path to the Next Round

Let’s break it down simply: only the top two teams from each group move on to the Round of 16.

And right now, Sundowns are behind Fluminense due to goal difference—thanks to the Brazilians’ 4-2 win over Uldan.

So what do the South Africans need? One thing and one thing only: a win.

A draw? That won’t cut it. A loss? Same result. It’s a must-win scenario, plain and simple.

The equation may be easy, but the challenge is anything but.

Still, with a place in the Round of 16 on the line, Sundowns are expected to throw everything they have into this game.

Millions Already Banked—And More on the Line

While pride and glory are on the line, let’s not forget the big numbers attached to this competition.

Sundowns have already pocketed over R200 million so far. Here’s how it breaks down:

  • R170 million for just making it to the tournament

  • R35 million for their victory over Uldan

That puts their current total at a whopping R205 million.

But there’s still more money at stake. If Sundowns beat Fluminense, they’ll grab another R35 million.

A draw, though disappointing, would still earn them R20 million.

Either way, it’s a lucrative venture—but everyone knows the real reward is qualification.

Can Sundowns Do It?

So now the big question: do you think Sundowns can rise to the occasion and beat Fluminense to book their spot in the knockout round?

Fans are already buzzing with predictions and opinions.

Whether you’re hopeful, skeptical, or cautiously optimistic, we want to hear your thoughts.