🌎 The Club World Cup guide to...Mamelodi Sundowns | OneFootball

Our guide to all 32 clubs participating at the FIFA Club World Cup continues.

Today we're looking at...Mamelodi Sundowns.

How did they qualify for the Club World Cup?

📸 PHILL MAGAKOE - AFP or licensors

Mamelodi Sundowns secured their place in the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup based on their strong performances in the CAF Champions League over the period between 2021 and 2024. Although they didn't win the tournament during that time, their consistent knockout round placings earned Sundowns sufficient ranking points to qualify as the second-best eligible team from Africa.

History at the Club World Cup

This will be Sundowns' second appearance in the Club World Cup. Their previous participation was in 2016 following their CAF Champions League victory. In that tournament, they finished sixth after a challenging campaign of two defeats from two.

How did they perform in the 2024/25 season?

The Sundowns walked away with the South African Premiership this season, winning the title by 12 points. The Pretoria outfit couldn't repeat that success on the continent however as they lost to Egyptian side Pyramids in the CAF Champions League final.

Who is the coach?

📸 KHALED DESOUKI - AFP or licensors

In December 2024, Mamelodi Sundowns appointed Portuguese coach Miguel Cardoso. Cardoso brings a wealth of experience from European clubs, including stints at Rio Ave, Nantes, Celta Vigo and AEK Athens.

Who is their star player?

Midfielder Teboho Mokoena stands out as Sundowns' key player. At 28-years-old, Mokoena has earned 34 international caps for South Africa and is known for his lung-busting runs and tough-tackling approach.

Expected performance at the Club World Cup

Drawn into Group F alongside Borussia Dortmund, Fluminense and Ulsan HD, Mamelodi Sundowns face a tough task getting into the latter rounds of the tournament.

📸 KHALED DESOUKI - AFP or Licensors