The South African champions head into the fixture knowing that anything less than a victory will see their tournament hopes dashed. With three points from their opening two games – a gritty 1-0 win over Ulsan HD followed by a pulsating 4-3 defeat to Borussia Dortmund – Sundowns sit third in Group F behind Fluminense and Dortmund, both on four points.
The stakes couldn’t be higher. Tournament rules favour head-to-head results over goal difference, meaning a draw won’t be enough for Sundowns to progress. Only a win will keep their Club World Cup dream alive.
Fluminense, unbeaten so far, present a formidable test. Despite some defensive frailties, the Brazilians have a wealth of talent and experience, none more so than 39-year-old veteran Thiago Silva. The former Chelsea and PSG defender has returned home for a final chapter in his illustrious career and remains a key figure in Fluminense’s tactical setup.
There’s a personal twist for Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso. Back in 2004, Cardoso had just departed FC Porto’s youth ranks when Silva arrived at the Portuguese club. While the two never crossed paths, they now find themselves on opposing ends of a win-or-go-home encounter.
But Cardoso’s attention will be fixed on more immediate threats – especially Fluminense’s in-form attacker Lucas Ribeiro Costa. The Brazilian lit up the clash against Dortmund with a spectacular solo goal and is widely regarded as one of the tournament’s standout performers so far.
For Sundowns, the equation is brutally clear. Beat Fluminense, or bow out.