Mamelodi Sundowns have written a new chapter in African football history by becoming the first African team to win a match at the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, kicking off their Group F campaign with a 1-0 victory over Ulsan HD of South Korea on Wednesday, 18 June.

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The match, held under the lights at Orlando in the United States, saw a composed and clinical performance from the reigning African champions. The Brazilians secured all three points on matchday one, placing them at the top of Group F heading into their highly anticipated clash with Borussia Dortmund on Saturday, 21 June.

The hero of the night was Iqraam Rayners, who netted the decisive goal in the 36th minute, earning himself the Man of the Match accolade. With that strike, Rayners became only the second Mamelodi Sundowns player to score at a FIFA Club World Cup, following in the footsteps of Percy Tau, who scored against Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors during the 2016 edition of the tournament.

With their opening win, Sundowns have ignited South African hopes of progressing to the knockout rounds. They now prepare to face German giants Borussia Dortmund in their second group game on Saturday, 21 June at 18:00 (SAST) — a clash that promises fireworks.

Match Summary

📍 Venue: Orlando, USA

⚽ Goal: Iqraam Rayners (36’)

🏆 Final Score: Ulsan HD 0 – 1 Mamelodi Sundowns

🟨 Man of the Match: Iqraam Rayners

With confidence high and history already made, the Brazilians are now eyeing a deep run at the world’s biggest club stage.

#SundownsAtClubWorldCup #FIFAClubWorldCup2025 #SouthAfricaRising

-The VIP Team

-Mamelodi Sundowns

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