In what was arguably the most thrilling game of the tournament so far, Mamelodi Sundowns and Borussia Dortmund produced a seven-goal spectacle at the TQL Stadium in Cincinnati during their Group F encounter at the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup. It was a match packed with end-to-end drama, a tale of courage and vulnerability, with Sundowns taking an early lead only to ultimately fall 4-3 to the German giants on a sweltering Saturday evening.
This result leaves the South African champions with much to reflect on both in terms of performance and tournament progression.
A Journey That Began in 2016
This Club World Cup campaign is not Sundowns’ first rodeo. The team made their debut at the global tournament in 2016, under the leadership of then-head coach Pitso Mosimane. After conquering the continent with their CAF Champions League triumph, Sundowns headed to Japan with high hopes. However, they struggled to adjust on that occasion, finishing sixth in what was a steep learning curve for the club.
Fast forward to 2025, and Sundowns return to the world stage with more experience, stronger depth, and a much clearer identity. Their ambition to go further this time is undeniable and while the result against Dortmund stings, it is also a reminder of how far the club has come since that initial appearance nearly a decade ago.
Fast Start, Painful Finish
The Brazilians struck early, catching Dortmund off-guard with an electric opening goal that had the South African fans dreaming of a famous scalp. Their press was sharp, their energy infectious, and for a while, they looked every bit the equals of their Bundesliga opponents.
But football is about moments and sometimes, about belief.
As the game wore on and the heat bore down, Ronwen Williams, Sundowns’ dependable goalkeeper and national team stalwart, seemed rattled. While his teammates displayed bravery in their offensive efforts, Williams appeared a step behind giving perhaps a little too much respect to the name on Dortmund’s shirts rather than the game unfolding in front of him. A few hesitant decisions at critical moments opened the floodgates, and Dortmund didn’t need a second invitation.
By full-time, Sundowns had gone from leading to trailing, with Dortmund clawing back and sealing the match 4-3. The searing Cincinnati heat which Dortmund had anticipated would be a major disadvantage — seemed to have little effect on their rhythm.
Man of the Match: Jobe Bellingham Shines
Young Jobe Bellingham, playing with the composure and class of his older brother Jude, was a standout performer. His midfield mastery and late runs into the box constantly stretched the Sundowns defence. He not only scored but also linked play magnificently earning him the Man of the Match accolade.
Speaking post-match, Bellingham acknowledged the challenge:
“Sundowns came at us with real quality. We didn’t expect them to press so aggressively. The heat was intense, but we stayed composed. Credit to our bench and the staff — we pushed through as a team.”
Coach Niko Kovac: Resilience Over Reputation
Dortmund’s head coach Niko Kovac also weighed in on the result:
“We knew this would be tough Sundowns are well-coached and very mobile. That early goal stunned us, but our response showed resilience. We’re happy with the three points, but also respectful of the quality Sundowns brought to this contest.”
Where Did It Go Wrong for Sundowns?
Loss of composure in key moments: After taking the lead, Sundowns failed to manage the tempo. Instead of calming the game, they were drawn into a high-paced slugfest that favoured Dortmund’s technical superiority.
Defensive lapses: In a game of fine margins, Ronwen Williams’ off-day proved costly. Whether it was nerves or over-respect, the lack of command in the box shifted momentum at crucial points.
Missed chances: Sundowns had opportunities to stretch the lead or equalise late in the game but lacked the killer instinct in front of goal.
This loss doesn’t mark the end of the road but it significantly narrows it. With only one win from two matches, Sundowns now face a must-win scenario in their final Group F game. Goal difference could also come into play, depending on Dortmund’s final result.
More than anything, the match exposed a mental block against “big-name” teams. The technical quality is clearly there, but Sundowns must now find their mental edge the belief that they belong among the world’s elite.
Sundowns will regroup and prepare for their final group fixture. Coach Rulani Mokwena and his technical team must work on two things: defensive organization and confidence under pressure. They also need Williams to bounce back and lead from the back with the authority that has defined his career.
The journey that started in 2016 continues. Back then, Sundowns were simply happy to be counted among the world’s best. In 2025, they are here to compete and to win. Despite the heartbreaking loss to Dortmund, there’s still a sense that something special could emerge from this campaign.
This wasn’t just a match. It was a statement. And if they can tighten up and believe a little more, Mamelodi Sundowns might just go further than they ever have before.
