African Glory: Sundowns Make History with Club World Cup Triumph

Mamelodi Sundowns kicked off their FIFA Club World Cup 2025 campaign in style, becoming the first African team to win a match in the tournament's new 32-team format.

Rayners Strikes Amid Weather Chaos

Playing under stormy skies in Orlando, the South African champions edged past Ulsan Hyundai of South Korea with a 1-0 victory. Iqraam Rayners easily tapped home the game's lone goal in the 36th minute following a slick team move.

The kickoff had been delayed due to lightning warnings, but once the action started, Sundowns showed no signs of hesitation. They saw two goals disallowed—one for offside and the other for handball—before finally breaking through.

Group F Leaders with Eyes on Knockouts

With this pivotal victory and a tie between Fluminense and Borussia Dortmund, Sundowns now lead Group F with three points. Their aim to compete among the world's best is reaffirmed with this important step toward round of 16 qualification.

Back on the World Stage After Eight Years

This marks Sundowns’ first Club World Cup appearance since 2016. Unlike last time, they qualified via the CAF ranking system, finishing second overall among African clubs.

Stay tuned as the Brazilians from Pretoria prepare for a blockbuster clash with Borussia Dortmund this Saturday—a test that could cement their place in the knockout rounds.