The highly anticipated debut of Jobe Bellingham for Borussia Dortmund concluded in a 0-0 draw against Fluminense in their opening Group F match of the FIFA Club World Cup 2025. The game, held at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, saw a tightly contested match with both sides creating chances but ultimately failing to find the back of the net.

Fluminense, the Copa Libertadores champions, arguably had the better of the match, demonstrating speed and dynamism in their attack. Throughout the game, the Brazilian side proved a threat, with Dortmund struggling to contain Jhon Arias, Matheus Martinelli, Everaldo, Hercules and Nonato. Dortmund's goalkeeper, Gregor Kobel, was called into action on several occasions, proving to be a critical figure in securing the draw for his team.

Dortmund, who qualified for the tournament after finishing in the top four of the Bundesliga, appeared to lack sharpness, especially in the first half. Their best opportunity in the first half came when Karim Adeyemi delivered a cross, but Serhou Guirassy couldn't make contact. Fluminense responded with efforts from Jhon Arias, Matheus Martinelli and Hercules, but none could break the deadlock.

In the second half, Fluminense continued to press, and Kobel was forced into making a double save, denying Everaldo and Nonato in quick succession. Just before the hour mark, Everaldo broke free, but his pass to Agustin Canobbio resulted in a comfortable save for Kobel.

The introduction of Jobe Bellingham in the 59th minute, replacing Pascal Groß, added a spark to Dortmund's midfield. Felix Nmecha also came on, replacing Karim Adeyemi, as Dortmund coach Niko Kovač sought to shift the momentum. Despite not having much time to internalize the team's processes since joining last week, Jobe quickly settled into the game, displaying confidence and quality in his passing. A YouTube video shows Jobe Bellingham making a big tackle on his debut.

The match concluded with Dortmund finishing strongly and Niklas Süle trying his luck with a shot that was saved by Fluminense's goalkeeper Fábio. Ultimately, neither side could find a breakthrough, resulting in a 0-0 draw.

Speaking after the match, Dortmund coach Niko Kovač acknowledged the challenge posed by Fluminense. He told DAZN, "Fluminense played very well, we had some difficulties, especially in the first half. In the second half, I would say it was better, but overall I would say it was a lucky point for us." Meanwhile, Fluminense defender Thiago Silva stated, "For myself, I think I played well. The team did as well... I'm very happy for the team today."

The draw leaves both teams with one point in Group F. Dortmund will face Mamelodi Sundowns in Cincinnati on June 21, while Fluminense will play Ulsan HD at MetLife Stadium on the same day.