Fluminense on the Front Foot
The Carioca side dominated possession and territory, especially in the first half, creating multiple clear scoring chances—including threats from Jhon Arias, Martinelli, and Everaldo.
Dortmund’s Hero: Gregor Köbel
Yet every promising Fluminense attack was met by the heroics of Gregor Köbel, Dortmund’s goalkeeper. His double-save—one miraculous fingertip reaction off a corner clearance and another reaction stop immediately after—preserved the stalemate.
Tactical Balance & Crowd Factor
— Dortmund failed to register a shot in the opening 45 minutes, retreating into a disciplined defensive setup.
— The stadium had a modest crowd of around 34,736, and the overcast skies and mild weather proved ideal, though the overall US interest remains subdued.
— Post-match, Köbel and Niklas Süle were critical of the team’s overall display—pointing to lack of creativity and energy, despite Köbel praising the point earned.
What Lies Ahead
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Fluminense maintained their unbeaten record and will next face Ulsan Hyundai at MetLife on Saturday, aiming to turn dominance into goals.
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Dortmund keep their hopes alive and travel to Cincinnati to take on Mamelodi Sundowns, banking on Köbel’s form to back them.
Despite the lack of goals, the match delivered drama, top-tier goalkeeping, and questions for Dortmund about whether this team can match its potential. Fluminense, meanwhile, will look to assert themselves in upcoming fixtures and claim control of Group F.
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