Raphael Durand
Dailysports's expert
One of the opening matches of the FIFA Club World Cup group stage will take place on Tuesday at the Meadowlands Arena in East Rutherford, where Brazil's Fluminense will host Borussia Dortmund. I'm backing a bet on goals in this clash, with a solid odds offer.
Match preview
Under the guidance of Renato Portaluppi, Fluminense arrive at the Club World Cup in top form: four wins and one draw in their last five matches. The Brazilians confidently defeated Internacional 2-0, showcasing a well-balanced approach between attack and defense. The team skillfully combines a bright, technical style with tactical discipline — making them a threat to any opponent, even a European powerhouse.
Wing play and clinical finishing are the trump cards of the Tricolores. Fluminense know how to control possession, ramp up the tempo, and still maintain defensive solidity, making them a potential "dark horse" of the tournament. But now comes a real test — the battle with Borussia, a side boasting vast international experience.
Borussia enter the tournament riding a wave of victories: five wins in five games, including a 3-0 thrashing of Kiel. Under Niko Kovač, the team looks rock-solid — high pressing, vertical attacks, and clinical execution make the Germans serious title contenders. Kovač has assembled a well-balanced squad, seamlessly blending young talent with seasoned warriors.
Borussia's attacking trio are in fine form, regularly finding routes to goal. The Germans know how to dictate terms, even in the toughest matches, and with Fluminense making their tournament debut, Dortmund look like confident favorites. The key for the Germans is to avoid overconfidence, which could prove costly in the opener.
Probable lineups
- Fluminense: Fábio, Samuel Xavier, Thiago Silva, Juan Freitas, René, André Trindade Santos, Martinelli, Jhon Arias, Nonato, Kevin Serna, Everaldo
- Borussia Dortmund: Gregor Kobel, Niklas Süle, Waldemar Anton, Ramy Bensebaini, Julian Ryerson, Marcel Sabitzer, Felix Nmecha, Dayan Svensson, Julian Brandt, Karim Adeyemi, Serhou Guirassy
Match facts and head-to-head
- This will be the first official meeting between Fluminense and Borussia Dortmund in history
- Both teams are unbeaten in their last five games, but Borussia have a perfect record — five wins
- In Borussia Dortmund's last 10 matches, the "Over 2.5 goals" bet has come through
Prediction
While Fluminense have shown a commendable level of play, Borussia's class and tournament experience give the Germans a significant edge. We expect a high-scoring affair, so our pick is "Over 2.5 goals" at odds of 1.75.
