
Sundowns Club World Cup news: New kit and squad
We're a week away from the reimagined FIFA Club World Cup. Mamelodi Sundowns will be at the heart of it all.
How did Sundowns claim a place? It was made possible through FIFA's ranking pathway, which rewards consistent performance in continental competitions. Over the past four years, Sundowns have consistently made the CAF Champions League quarterfinals, securing the much-needed points.
This record placed them among the highest-ranked African clubs, sealing one of the four African places for the expanded 32-team Club World Cup.
Agent defends former Sundowns star Mbule Mamelodi Sundowns team vs Raja Casablanca. Image: @safootclassics/X
Ahead of the event kickoff, the world's number one leaked kits website, Footy Headlines, have posted the expected new kit on the internet… Full Story here.
The Betway Premiership champions have submitted their 26-man squad to FIFA. Sundowns will jet out of the OR Tambo International Airport on Sunday evening.
Some surprise omissions include Thapelo Maseko, Keagan Johannes, Jody February, Lucas Suarez and Terrance Mashego… Full Story here.
Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1
Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.
Hashtags

Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles


The South African
an hour ago
- The South African
Kaizer Chiefs monitor Shalulile as Sundowns contract talks stall
Kaizer Chiefs could be handed a golden opportunity to bolster their attack, as Peter Shalulile's future at Mamelodi Sundowns remains up in the air. While no official move has been made, the Soweto giants are believed to be closely monitoring the situation as contract negotiations between Sundowns and the prolific striker appear to have hit a stumbling block. This publication has learned that Shalulile and Sundowns are locked in talks over a new deal. However, a source revealed that the Betway Premiership champions have only offered a short-term contract, a proposal that might not align with the Namibian international's long-term plans. Since joining Sundowns in 2020 from Highlands Park, Shalulile has proven his worth with a striking ratio exceeding 50%, firmly establishing himself as one of the most lethal forwards in the PSL. He's even closing in on Daniel Mudau's record as Sundowns' all-time leading goal scorer. However, doubts about his future have intensified recently. The forward has seen limited game time under coach Miguel Cardoso, adding fuel to the rumours that he could be on his way out. 'There's a strong consideration to allow him to leave if he does not accept the short-term proposal,' a source revealed. While there's been no official word from Naturena, the ongoing uncertainty could play right into Kaizer Chiefs' hands. Chiefs have long been in the market for a reliable frontman to sharpen their attack, and the possible availability of a proven PSL star like Shalulile may prove too tempting to ignore. Analysts suggest the Soweto club could benefit massively from signing a striker of Shalulile's calibre, someone who's not only proven in local competition but also boasts CAF Champions League experience. The source also hints that Sundowns have already started planning for a post-Shalulile era. The club spent a whopping R60 million on Arthur Sales, who arrived at the beginning of the just-ended season. However, the Brazilian forward initially did struggled to settle into the pace and intensity of the Betway Premiership. Lebo Mothiba, another high-profile addition, has also yet to make a consistent impact, only returning to the pitch in the CAF Champions League final against Pyramids, his first appearance since December 2023. With neither of the new signings hitting top form. The pressure on Sundowns to resolve the Shalulile situation continues to mount. As it stands, there are no confirmed offers from other clubs. And Shalulile is believed to be focused solely on negotiations with Sundowns. That said, the source claims he will consider a move if talks collapse before the new campaign kicks off. Could Kaizer Chiefs pull off the coup of the season? Let us know by leaving a comment below or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1. Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X, and Bluesky for the latest news.


The South African
2 hours ago
- The South African
Kaizer Chiefs transfer blow: Simba slam door shut on star strikers
Kaizer Chiefs' ambitions to strengthen their strike force ahead of the 2025/2026 season have been dealt a serious setback. Tanzanian powerhouse Simba SC have reportedly rejected a transfer bid from the Glamour Boys for star striker Denis Kibu, according to The Guardian (Tanzania). The Soweto giants also have their eyes on Jean Charles Ahoua, another standout forward from the Tanzanian Premier League side. Chiefs are eager to revamp their frontline after another underwhelming campaign, and Ahoua's impressive stats, 15 goals and eight assists this season, make him a tempting prospect. Despite their interest, Simba have made their stance clear. 'We are building a team for long-term success, and that means keeping our most valuable players,' said a Simba official, as quoted by The Guardian . 'We are not in the business of selling our best assets, especially not at a time when the team is gelling and showing real promise.' Kaizer Chiefs are not alone in chasing the signatures of Kibu and Ahoua. Reports suggest other African heavyweights are closely monitoring the duo, with the transfer window set to open in a matter of weeks. However, Simba appear intent on retaining their attacking talents. The Tanzanian side's firm decision could force Chiefs to reconsider their transfer strategy as they look to rebuild their squad for the upcoming season. The club has come under increasing pressure from supporters and former players to deliver results and silverware, and bolstering their forward line remains a top priority. With their bid for Denis Kibu knocked back and Ahoua unlikely to move, Chiefs must act fast if they want to avoid missing out on top talent this transfer window. The club's recruitment team faces a race against time to find suitable alternatives capable of reigniting their attacking threat. Who should Kaizer Chiefs sign after being reportedly rejected by Simba? Let us know by leaving a comment below or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1. Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X, and Bluesky for the latest news.


The South African
2 hours ago
- The South African
Orlando Pirates news: Mokwena, Mosimane, Saleng, Hotto, Mako
Orlando Pirates remain on their quest to find Jose Riveiro's successor, a manager with whom they enjoyed three triumphant years, winning five domestic cups. Former Mamelodi Sundowns managers Rulani Mokwena and Pitso Mosimane are said to be on their radar, however the club faces competition from Egyptian giants Zamalek FC over both PSL winners. However, neither clubs may get their hands on Mokwena, who is reluctant to compete against his mentor for jobs. 'I didn't hear from them (Zamalek) after I had said I heard that coach Pitso was also in the running for this position,' Mokwena told SuperSport's Africa Soccer show. 'My relationship and my respect for him would not allow me to compete for the same coaching job with coach Pitso.' 'It just wouldn't sit well with me, so I pulled out. I said I would rather they give it to Pitso.' 'Exactly what you are saying, my agent said, 'But this is a big club', and I said my respect for Pitso and what he has done for my career wouldn't allow me to do that.' Orlando Pirates have already confirmed that they will release left-back Paseko Mako, who is reportedly close to signing with bitter rivals Kaizer Chiefs. Meanwhile, the Sea Robbers have reportedly offered Hotto a contract extension; however, question marks surround the future of Monnapule Saleng. The former, whose contract expires at the end of this month, is on the brink of free agency, however the Buccaneers are yet to confirm whether they will let him go. Meanwhile, a Saleng sale seems all but confirmed following his six month hiatus over salary demands the club where unwilling to meet. The 27-year-old has been linked with Kaizer Chiefs having reportedly signed a pre-contract, however, this is yet to be confirmed. Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1. Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.