Fluminense and Mamelodi Sundowns face each other in the final matchday of Group F at the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 today. Thiago Silva, curiously, is not starting for the Brazilian side.
According to TNT Sports Brasil, the veteran defender is dealing with muscle soreness, which is why Fluminense head coach Renato Portaluppi decided to place him on the bench this time.
Before this game, Silva played the full 90 minutes both against Borussia Dortmund and Ulsan HD FC as Fluminense’s captain. While the team’s first match at the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 ended goalless, the second one saw the Brazilians claim a 4-2 win.
What result do Fluminense need to advance at the Club World Cup?
With four points in two games, Fluminense are in control of their own destiny at the FIFA Club World Cup 2025. A draw against Mamelodi Sundowns (3) will be enough for Silva’s side to seal a round of 16 berth.
Fluminense could even finish atop Group F, depending on Borussia Dortmund’s (4) result against Ulsan HD FC (0). However, a loss could leave them out of the tournament if the German side avoids defeat.
Therefore, it’s safe to say that Silva would’ve started if his physical condition was good. He’s not playing from the get-go, but perhaps he comes off the bench later in the game.
Who would Fluminense play in the Club World Cup round of 16?
Maybe Portaluppi doesn’t want to risk Silva in case the team needs him in a more challenging scenario soon. In the event they advance, depending on their final position, Fluminense could face Inter Milan, River Plate, or Monterrey in the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 round of 16.