South Africa's Mamelodi Sundowns became the first African team to win at the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, defeating South Korea's Ulsan Hyundai 1-0 in their Group 6 opener at Inter&Co Stadium early Wednesday morning (local time).
Match Highlights:
• 36' Goal: Akram Rieners scored the historic winner after connecting with a perfect through ball
• Venue: Inter&Co Stadium, Orlando, Florida
• Weather Delay: Match postponed 65 minutes due to severe weather concerns
Tournament Implications:
✓ Sundowns top Group 6 (3 pts)
✓ Ulsan Hyundai sit bottom (0 pts)
✓ Dortmund and Fluminense trail with 1 pt each after their 0-0 draw
Match Analysis:
The first half saw Sundowns dominate, with Rieners' clinical finish proving decisive. Neither team created clear chances in a cagey second half, allowing the South Africans to secure Africa's first victory in this tournament edition.
Next Matches:
The victory sets up a crucial clash between Sundowns and [next opponent], while Ulsan must regroup against [next opponent] to keep knockout stage hopes alive.