Rayners Shines as Sundowns Make History with First-Ever Club World Cup Victory for South Africa

Rayners Shines as Sundowns Make History with First-Ever Club World Cup Victory for South Africa

Orlando, Florida – Mamelodi Sundowns made history on Wednesday morning by securing South Africa’s first-ever win at the FIFA Club World Cup, edging out South Korea’s Ulsan HD 1-0 in a hard-fought Group F clash at the Inter&Co Stadium.

With Borussia Dortmund and Fluminense playing out a goalless draw earlier, both Sundowns and Ulsan stepped onto the pitch knowing a win would put them in pole position. And it was Masandawana who rose to the occasion.

From the first whistle, the South African champions looked hungry. Iqraam Rayners, who was lively throughout the match, thought he had broken the deadlock in the 27th minute after connecting with a pinpoint Lucas Ribeiro corner. However, VAR had other ideas, ruling it out for handball.

But Rayners wasn’t done yet.

Just nine minutes later, the in-form striker finally found the net. Ribeiro was once again the architect, threading a clever pass that Rayners coolly slotted home to give Sundowns a well-deserved lead.

Sundowns could have put the game to bed in the first half with at least two more goals, but a combination of missed chances and tight officiating kept Ulsan in the contest. The second half followed a similar script—dominant play from the PSL giants but with no added goals to show for it.

Despite their wastefulness in front of goal, the 1-0 victory was a milestone moment—not just for the club, but for the entire nation. It marked the first time a South African side has claimed a win at the prestigious Club World Cup.

Now topping Group F with three points, Sundowns sit two ahead of both Dortmund and Fluminense. A thrilling clash with Dortmund awaits on Saturday at the TQL Stadium in Cincinnati, where the Bundesliga giants will be desperate to avoid another slip-up. For Sundowns, however, even a draw could send shockwaves through the competition.

Among the standout performers were Lucas Ribeiro, Divine Lunga, and the ever-reliable Iqraam Rayners. Khuliso Mudau held it down defensively on the right flank, while skipper Themba Zwane brought calm and control whenever Ulsan threatened. But it was midfield general Teboho Mokoena who stole the spotlight with his command of the center park—dictating play, winning duels, and crafting chances that deserved better finishing.

As the group tightens, Ulsan HD now find themselves needing a win against Fluminense to keep their hopes alive.

One thing is clear: Sundowns have arrived on the world stage—and they mean business.