It took over an hour to start due to a lightning warning in Orlando, but when play finally began, Mamelodi Sundowns of South Africa made their presence felt with a 1–0 victory over South Korea’s Ulsan Hyundai HD on June 17 at Inter & Co Stadium.
Rayners Turns Chance into Moment
The decisive moment came in the 36th minute, when striker Iqraam Rayners slotted home from close range after a slick through-ball from Lucas Ribeiro. Rayners had two earlier goals ruled out—one for handball and another by mere inches for offside.
Sundowns Gained, Ulsan Pressed
Sundowns dominated proceedings, holding over 70% possession and creating multiple chances, although they were wasteful in finishing. Ulsan mounted late attacks—especially after introducing Venezuelan forward Lacava—but couldn’t find the equaliser.
A Landmark Result
This victory was particularly noteworthy—marking the first-ever win by an African club at the expanded 32-team Club World Cup. It also temporarily places Sundowns at the top of Group F, ahead of Fluminense and Borussia Dortmund, who drew 0–0 earlier.
Coaches Reflect
-
Miguel Cardoso (Sundowns coach) praised his side’s tactical discipline and commitment, though lamented their failure to kill the game off with a second goal.
-
Kim Pan-gon (Ulsan coach) described the match as “must-win” and singled it out as crucial for progressing in a group where the Brazilian and German teams are the favourites. He thanked his players for their effort and urged quick recovery .
Sparse Attendance Highlights Challenge
With barely 3,400 fans in attendance, the match was one of the most sparsely attended in the tournament—underscoring FIFA’s challenge in engaging audiences for lesser-known matchups .
What’s Next
-
Mamelodi Sundowns next take on Fluminense, aiming to build momentum.
-
Ulsan Hyundai return to face Borussia Dortmund, seeking a swift bounce-back.
African fans can celebrate a historic start, while the stakes rise for both teams in this pivotal Group F campaign.
