Dortmund's frustration at the club World Cup start: 0-0 against fluminense!

Dortmund's frustration at the club World Cup start: 0-0 against fluminense!

East Rutherford, USA - June 17, 2025 could go into the history books for Borussia Dortmund - but not necessarily in a positive memory. In the first group game of the FIFA Club World Championship, which will be held in the United States, Dortmund against Fluminense from Brazil did not get beyond a 0-0 draw. Despite a solid squad and the high demands, the team of coach Niko Kovac Holprig started the tournament, which also criticized Niklas Süle loudly. "We had expected more," said the defender, who was a little disappointed with the weak performance. Wismar fm reports that Dortmund could not convince after a month-long break and, especially in the first round, not playing out a goal.

The encounter took place in the Metlife Stadium in East Rutherford, which was only sparsely occupied. Fluminenense impressed with more degrees and an offensive approach, while Dortmund's defensive was solid, but numerous dangerous distance shots by the Brazilians allowed. Pablo, the 44-year-old goalkeeper von Fluminense, was able to fall back on his own experience: with his 1,375. He is a legend. Thiago Silva, 40 years old and captain of the team, also successfully conducted his teammates and prevented greater dangers for his goal. Dortmund's keeper Gregor Kobel finally became a match winner when he was able to impressively defuse a dangerous shot from EVERALDO.

game course and tactics

Dortmund was well organized defensively, but the team revealed a big shortcoming on the offensive. After a conscious waiver of newcomers Jobe Bellingham, who had only moved from Sunderland to Dortmund, he only came in the second half when he replaced Pascal. According to New York Times, Bellingham still needs time to get used to the style of playing from Dortmund, which he showed in his 31 minutes: and a high degree of physical presence.

In addition, the next challenges are already around the corner. Dortmund has to prove itself in the upcoming group games against Mamelodi Sundowns from South Africa and Ulsan HD from South Korea. The demands on the team are high, especially since Dortmund reached the Champions League final last year. But the performance shown so far raises questions.

background to the club World Cup

The FIFA Club World Championship, which takes place in the USA from June 14 to July 13, 2025, comprises a total of 32 clubs, spread over eight groups. The tournament idea was reformed in order to secure more relevance and income for the European teams. "We have a good hand when choosing the participants," said the organizer confidently. EM2024 emphasizes that Dortmund is one of the 12 European teams that take part in this prestigious competition.