Mamelodi Sundowns vs Fluminense prediction, H2H and probable lineups - June 25, 2025
The third-round clash between Mamelodi Sundowns and Fluminense will take place on Wednesday at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens. I’m backing a goals bet in this match with an appealing set of odds.
Match preview
Mamelodi Sundowns have once again proven that African football boasts teams capable of dictating terms even against top-league opponents. Miguel Cardoso’s side showcases fearless ball control: 59% possession against Borussia and nearly 70% against Ulsan — numbers that not every European powerhouse can claim. But possession and conversion are two different stories: the South Africans still need to turn their territorial dominance into consistent results.
The showdown with Fluminense will be a real test of maturity for Mamelodi. At stake is not just three points, but a historic chance to reach the Club World Cup playoffs for the first time ever. The team has shown resilience and an ability to seize their moments, as demonstrated against Borussia, where they scored three times despite the loss. Now, the task is clear: win at all costs.
Fluminense arrived at the tournament as the group’s firm favorite and has fully lived up to expectations so far. Renato Gaúcho’s men played two completely contrasting matches: a goal-fest against Ulsan (4-2) and a disciplined goalless draw with Borussia. This flexibility is the Brazilians’ main trump card: they can adapt to any opponent’s style and switch tactics as the match unfolds.
Even a draw will suit Fluminense against Mamelodi — but don’t expect the Brazilians to play for a stalemate. South American teams are traditionally strong in attack and are unlikely to betray their philosophy in such a crucial encounter. Fluminense have already shown they’re ready for any scenario: whether it’s a goal-for-goal shootout or a war of attrition in possession.
Probable lineups
- Mamelodi Sundowns: Ronwen Williams – Grant Kekana, Divine Lunga, Keanu Cupido, Khuliso Mudau – Marcelo Allende, Teboho Mokoena – Lucas Ribeiro, Themba Zwane, Thapelo Maseko – Iqraam Rayners.
- Fluminense: Fábio – Guga, Juan Pablo Freitas, Thiago Silva, Gabriel Fuentes – Hercules Pereira, Martinelli – Ganso, Kevin Serna, Jhon Arias – Germán Cano.
Match facts and head-to-head
- Mamelodi Sundowns and Fluminense will meet for the first time in official competition.
- Mamelodi have scored in 8 of their last 10 matches on the international stage.
- Fluminense are unbeaten in 10 of their last 12 matches in the Club World Cup and Copa Libertadores.
Prediction
Both sides approach this decisive fixture with high motivation and an attacking mindset. Mamelodi have shown they can surprise and score even against elite clubs, while Fluminense remain consistently dangerous up front and are always ready to hit back. Neither defense is flawless, so a goal exchange looks more than likely. In such an open contest, goals are only a matter of time. Our pick: Both teams to score at odds of 1.80.
