Day 12 of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup delivered a final dose of group stage drama, where every goal, clearance, and missed opportunity counted. As four crucial matches unfolded across the United States, qualification hopes hung in the balance for some of the tournament’s biggest names. From last-minute heroics to emotional exits, Tuesday’s action offered a fitting climax to Groups E and F.
Borussia Dortmund 1–0 Ulsan Hyundai
Group F | TQL Stadium, Cincinnati
Borussia Dortmund secured their place in the Round of 16 with a narrow 1–0 win over a spirited Ulsan Hyundai side. The game’s defining moment came just after the break, when Daniel Svensson coolly slotted home after a slick one-two with Gio Reyna. Despite Ulsan’s late surge, including a near-equalizer from Lee Dong-gyeong that was brilliantly saved by Gregor Kobel, Dortmund's defensive unit remained composed under pressure. The match was also marked by a heated midfield battle and clever game management from Edin Terzić’s men, who controlled the tempo in the closing minutes.
Mamelodi Sundowns 0–0 Fluminense
Group F | Hard Rock Stadium, Miami Gardens
In a game where both teams had everything to play for, the deadlock held firm. Fluminense, needing only a draw to qualify, stayed compact and disciplined, while Sundowns pushed forward relentlessly but lacked finishing precision. Cassius Mailula came closest for the South Africans, skying a golden chance in the 63rd minute. As the match wore on, Brazilian veteran Marcelo made a crucial goal-line clearance in stoppage time, preserving the 0–0 and securing Fluminense’s passage. The draw eliminated Sundowns, who exited the tournament with heads held high after a campaign full of grit and ambition.
Inter Milan 2–0 River Plate
Group E | Lumen Field, Seattle
Inter Milan showed their class when it mattered most, topping Group E with a confident 2–0 win over River Plate. After a cagey first half, the Italians broke through in the 72nd minute when Francesco Esposito rose highest to nod home a Barella cross. River responded with urgency but were punished on the counter, with Alessandro Bastoni’s deflected strike sealing the victory in stoppage time. Key moments included Sommer’s fingertip save from Barco’s curling effort and Inter’s clinical finishing in key phases. River’s tournament came to an end, marked by missed chances and visible frustration from manager Martín Demichelis on the touchline.
Monterrey 3–0 Urawa Red Diamonds
Group E | Rose Bowl, Pasadena
Monterrey delivered one of their most complete performances of the tournament, overwhelming Urawa Red Diamonds 3–0 to seal qualification. Nelson Deossa opened the scoring with a driven effort from outside the box, before Germán Berterame struck twice in the second half—first with a smart near-post finish, then a curling shot after beating two defenders. Urawa, already eliminated, struggled to match the Mexican side’s intensity. Monterrey's midfield trio dominated possession, with Jesús Corona orchestrating wave after wave of attacks. The result confirmed Monterrey’s rise as a serious knockout-stage contender.
Day 12 will be remembered for its tight margins, clutch moments, and bold performances. Inter Milan and Monterrey powered into the knockouts, Dortmund held their nerve, and Fluminense showed their defensive steel. The stage is now fully set for the Round of 16.
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