From Heartbreak to Hope: Sundowns Target Club World Cup Breakthrough

Mamelodi Sundowns are ready to carry the South African flag high at the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup in the United States, aiming to make a bold statement on the global stage after falling short in two major cup competitions.

Global Stage Awaits

The 32-team tournament, running from June 15 to July 13, will see the DStv Premiership champions test themselves against some of the world’s finest. Despite an early domestic cup exit and CAF Champions League final heartbreak against Pyramids FC (3-2 on aggregate), Sundowns’ league dominance ensures they enter the tournament with confidence.

They lead Orlando Pirates by 12 points with two league matches remaining, confirming their eighth consecutive South African league title.

Group Stage Fixtures

The Brazilians have been drawn in a challenging group, set to face:

• Ulsan Hyundai (South Korea) – June 17
• Borussia Dortmund (Germany) – June 21
• Fluminense (Brazil) – June 25

Each match will be a major test of Sundowns’ tactical maturity, squad depth, and continental pedigree under Portuguese coach Miguel Cardoso.

Redemption & Ambition

Sundowns will be looking to make a historic run in the Club World Cup, the first event to feature 32 clubs, after losing by a slim margin in both the domestic cup semifinal and the CAF Champions League final.

Now that the finest in Africa are in the spotlight, Mamelodi Sundowns have an opportunity to change their story and establish their place among the top football teams.