Mamelodi Sundowns FC narrowly lost 4-3 to German club Borussia Dortmund in a thrilling Group F encounter at the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 on Saturday, 22 June 2025.
Mamelodi Sundowns vs Dortmund match review
The defeat has put pressure on Sundowns to win their next game if they hope to advance to the knockout rounds of the competition.
The match, held at TQL Stadium in Cincinnati, began with promise for the South African side. Lucas Ribeiro opened the scoring in the 11th minute after weaving through the Dortmund defence and finding the net.
However, that early lead was quickly neutralised. A mistake from goalkeeper Ronwen Williams allowed Felix Nmecha to equalise for Dortmund five minutes later.
Dortmund capitalised on their regained momentum. Serhou Guirassy headed in a second goal after combining with Julian Brandt, and Jude Bellingham added a third just before halftime, converting a rebound to give Dortmund a 3-1 lead.
Early in the second half, a defensive error saw Khuliso Mudau deflect a cross into his own net, stretching Dortmund’s lead to 4-1.
Despite being down by three goals, Sundowns continued to fight. Iqraam Rayners struck back in the 62nd minute after his initial header bounced off the post.
Then in the 90th minute, Lebo Mothiba slotted home a well-placed shot to make it 4-3. However, Dortmund held firm in the closing minutes to take all three points.
The result places Dortmund at the top of Group F with four points from two games, followed by Mamelodi Sundowns with three points from two matches. Fluminense FC and Ulsan HD are yet to win, with the former having drawn one match and the latter losing their opening fixture.
Mamelodi Sundowns fixtures: Here’s who they play next
Mamelodi Sundowns now face Brazilian side Fluminense FC on Wednesday, 25 June 2025, at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami.
Kickoff is scheduled for 21:00 SAST. This final group stage match is crucial—if Sundowns win, they secure one of the two knockout spots in Group F.
A draw or loss would leave their qualification dependent on other match results and goal differences.
Under the new format introduced in 2025, 32 teams are divided into eight groups of four. Each team plays three group matches.
The top two teams from each group move on to the round of 16.
For Sundowns, that means only a win guarantees their advancement, as their current goal difference stands at zero, with four goals scored and four conceded.