Match Overview
At TQL Stadium in Cincinnati, U.S. Vice President JD Vance watched Borussia Dortmund secure their spot in the elimination round of the Club World Cup. The Ohio-born vice president observed as Jobe Bellingham delivered a crucial assist to Daniel Svensson in the match against South Korea’s Ulsan, leading to a decisive 1-0 victory for the German club. This win positions Dortmund for a clash in Atlanta on Tuesday, where they will compete against either River Plate, Monterrey, or Inter Milan. Meanwhile, Brazil’s Fluminense also advanced, having effectively neutralized Mamelodi Sundowns in their Miami match-up.
Security and Attendance
Though a modest crowd estimated at around 26,000 attended the game, security measures were heightened with the presence of Secret Service agents, including a sniper stationed on the roof for Vance’s protection. While President Donald Trump has yet to attend a Club World Cup event, he recently hosted a group of Juventus players and FIFA president Gianni Infantino at the White House amid prospects of diplomatic discussions involving Iran.
Vice President’s Comments
Vance, hailing from Middletown, just an hour from the stadium, has remarked on his aspirations for soccer fans attending next summer’s World Cup in North America. He has, however, playfully warned potential attendees that they should not overstay their welcome, lest they find themselves speaking with Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem.
Match Analysis
Despite a sweltering afternoon heat of 93 degrees Fahrenheit (feeling even warmer), those present found respite in the shade. Infantino was seen adjusting his attire from a formal suit to a more casual outfit as the game unfolded. In attendance with Vance were his wife Usha and family, but the match itself was hardly a thrilling encounter. Dortmund displayed solid control, particularly in the first half, under their 3-4-3 formation, with Bellingham’s involvement being instrumental. He assisted Svensson’s goal in the 36th minute and earlier helped create several opportunities, although Dortmund’s offense flagged after Bellingham’s substitution.
Player Spotlight: Jobe Bellingham
Bellingham has quickly established himself as a key figure at Dortmund, proving his worth beyond the legacy of his brother, former player Jude. He has demonstrated adaptability and a capacity for teamwork in a role influenced by Niko Kovac’s midfield strategies. Described as physically strong, technically adept, and possessing a mix of creativity without flamboyance, Bellingham fits the profile of what Dortmund needed. His playing style suggests he is more comfortable blending within the team rather than seeking the spotlight individually, a quality that suits the team’s current dynamics well.
Fluminense’s Performance
On the other hand, Fluminense maintained the strong showing of Brazilian teams in this tournament, becoming the fourth team from Brazil to move onto the knockout phase. Despite controlling 68% of possession against Mamelodi Sundowns, they struggled to convert those opportunities into effective shots, only nearing a breakthrough when they struck the post. Nevertheless, Fluminense’s defensive stability—evident even with stalwart Thiago Silva resting on the bench—allowed them to preserve their position in the tournament following two scoreless draws, the earlier one against Dortmund proving crucial in their advancement.
