Sundowns ready for redemption on club World Cup return
· Tactical evolution under Cardoso gives Sundowns a fighting chance
· Ronwen Williams: reigning CAF Goalkeeper of the Year anchors defence
· Ribeiro Costa and Zwane: A sparkling partnership lighting up the attack
Mamelodi Sundowns are set to make a long-awaited return to the FIFA Club World Cup, nearly a decade after their last appearance on the global stage. The South African champions, widely regarded as one of the most stylish and consistent clubs on the African continent, come into the tournament with renewed ambition and a far more formidable squad than in previous years.
Their qualification follows a string of dominant seasons in domestic and continental football, earning them the distinction of being CAF's second-best ranked team over the past four years.
The draw, however, has presented a stern test for the Brazilians.
Grouped alongside German Bundesliga giants Borussia Dortmund, reigning Brazilian champions Fluminense, and a disciplined Ulsan Hyundai from South Korea, the path to progression is anything but straightforward.
Still, the beauty of competition football lies in its unpredictability — a factor that Sundowns will be eager to use to their advantage.
Head coach Miguel Cardoso, who took over the reins in December 2024, has already stamped his tactical authority on the squad. Under his guidance, Sundowns have adopted a dynamic and fluid 4-2-3-1 formation that emphasizes possession-based football with vertical penetration.
This setup has proven ideal for unleashing the attacking talents of Lucas Ribeiro Costa and Iqraam Rayners, who have combined for 30 goals and 18 assists this season.
The return of midfield maestro, Themba Zwane will be another source of creativity for the former African champions who are looking at making a name for themselves on the global stage.
At the back, reigning CAF Goalkeeper of the Year, Ronwen Williams continues to provide stability and leadership, adding a vital layer of experience in high-pressure scenarios.
The key to Sundowns' success lies in their opening match against Ulsan Hyundai.
A win there would significantly boost their chances of advancing and could inject the confidence needed to challenge the more established powerhouses of Europe and South America.
Moreover, Cardoso's side may benefit from the relative unfamiliarity their style and players pose to opponents who rarely encounter African club football.
Sundowns' last appearance at the Club World Cup in 2016 ended in disappointment, failing to advance beyond the early stages.
This time, with tactical maturity, attacking firepower, and a clearer identity, the South African champions are determined to rewrite their international story — and perhaps even make history.
Mamelodi Sundowns FC FIFA Club World Cup Fixtures:
Wednesday, 18 June: Ulsan vs Mamelodi Sundowns | 22h00 GMT
Saturday, 21 June: Mamelodi Sundowns vs Borussia Dortmund | 16h00 GMT
Wednesday, 25 June: Mamelodi Sundowns vs Fluminense | 19h00 GMT
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