FIFA Club World Cup 2025: Mamelodi Sundowns edge Ulsan HD in historic win
A first-half strike from Iqraam Rayners proved the difference as Mamelodi Sundowns claimed a historic 1–0 victory over Ulsan HD in Group F of the FIFA Club World Cup, marking the first-ever win by an African club in the newly expanded 32-team tournament.
Weather Delay, then Early Fireworks
Kick-off was delayed over an hour due to lightning near the stadium, but once the match began, Sundowns took control, dictating tempo with calm, composed buildup play. Lucas Ribeiro threatened early, and his attacking intelligence would later prove decisive.
Ulsan looked sharp in transition, nearly grabbing an early goal when Erick Farias fired over the bar in the 4th minute. The K League side showed glimpses of their threat but struggled to maintain quality in the final third.
Rayners breaks through — Finally
Sundowns' Iqraam Rayners thought he’d scored twice before the half-hour mark, only for VAR to intervene—one chalked off for handball, another for offside.
Persistence paid off in the 36th minute. A sublime through ball from Lucas Ribeiro split the defence, and Rayners coolly slotted home to give Sundowns a deserved lead, his third attempt finally standing.
Second Half: Ulsan’s tactical adjustments fall short
Kim Pan-gon's side returned from the break with more urgency, introducing Matías Lacava, whose dynamism on the left gave Ulsan a much-needed spark. They pushed higher and increased possession but continued to falter in the final third.
Their best chance came in the 80th minute, as Lacava slipped in Lee Dong-gyeong, whose low shot was brilliantly stopped by Ronwen Williams in the Sundowns goal. Sundowns sat deeper in the second half, soaking up pressure and managing the game expertly despite a dip in attacking intensity.
Tactical Summary
- Sundowns excelled with short-passing combinations and a disciplined mid-block.
- Rayners was central to their threat, consistently breaking Ulsan’s defensive line.
- Ulsan’s best spells came from direct counters and Lacava’s late involvement, but crossing quality and final delivery were lacking.
Post-Match Quotes
“We lacked composure in the key moments. The players worked hard, but at this level, one lapse is enough to lose the game.” — Kim Pan-gon, Ulsan HD Head Coach
“To score the winning goal and help make history for the club and the continent—it’s something I’ll never forget.” — Iqraam Rayners, Mamelodi Sundowns Match-Winner
Ulsan’s Upcoming Fixtures
- Fluminense — Sun, June 22 | 07:00 AM KST
- Borussia Dortmund — Thu, June 26 | 04:00 AM KST
With zero points and two tough fixtures ahead, Ulsan must win both to have any hope of advancing to the knockout stages.
About Mamelodi Sundowns Football Club
Mamelodi Sundowns Football Club is a South African professional team based in Mamelodi, Pretoria in the Gauteng province. Competing in the South African Premiership, the nation’s top division, Sundowns are among Africa’s most dominant clubs, renowned for their attacking football and continental success, including a CAF Champions League title.
About Ulsan HD FC
Ulsan HD FC, formerly known as Ulsan Hyundai FC, is a leading South Korean football club based in Ulsan. The club competes in K League 1, the top flight of South Korean football, and is known for its consistency and tactical discipline, with multiple league titles and AFC Champions League successes.
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