Club World Cup

Why is Thiago Silva not starting for Fluminense vs Mamelodi Sundowns today at FIFA Club World Cup 2025?

With Fluminense facing Mamelodi Sundowns in the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 group stage finale, many fans are wondering: Why is Thiago Silva not playing today?

Thiago Silva #3 of Fluminense FC controls the ball during the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 group F match between Fluminense FC and Ulsan HD FC at MetLife Stadium on June 21, 2025 in East Rutherford, New Jersey.
Ā© Francois Nel/Getty ImagesThiago Silva #3 of Fluminense FC controls the ball during the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 group F match between Fluminense FC and Ulsan HD FC at MetLife Stadium on June 21, 2025 in East Rutherford, New Jersey.

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.

Advertisement

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.

Advertisement

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.

Thiago Silva playing at the Club World Cup.

Thiago Silva playing at the Club World Cup.

Advertisement

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.

Thiago Silva’s net worth: How much money does Fluminense’s center-back have?

see also

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.

Advertisement

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.

ALSO READ
Where to watch Santos vs Fluminense live in the USA: Brasileirao 2025
Soccer

Where to watch Santos vs Fluminense live in the USA: Brasileirao 2025

Where to watch America de Cali vs Fluminense in the USA: 2025 Copa Sudamericana
Soccer

Where to watch America de Cali vs Fluminense in the USA: 2025 Copa Sudamericana

Where to watch Fluminense vs Palmeiras live in the USA: Brasileirao 2025
Soccer

Where to watch Fluminense vs Palmeiras live in the USA: Brasileirao 2025

Where to watch Flamengo vs Fluminense live in the USA: Brasileirao 2025
Soccer

Where to watch Flamengo vs Fluminense live in the USA: Brasileirao 2025

Better Collective Logo