Jobe Bellingham bagged his first goal for Borussia Dortmund as the Bundesliga side narrowly defeated a spirited Mamelodi Sundowns 4-3 in their FIFA Club World Cup opener.
The £27 million signing from Sunderland found the net in a captivating match that saw the South African champions push Dortmund to their limits.
Sundowns, largely unknown globally, stunned Dortmund early with Lucas Ribeiro Costa’s brilliant solo goal in the 11th minute.
However, a goalkeeping error allowed Felix Nmecha to quickly equalize for Dortmund. Serhou Guirassy then headed Dortmund into the lead before Bellingham, making his full debut, coolly slotted home in the 45th minute, giving his side a 3-1 halftime lead.
Dortmund extended their advantage with an own goal in the second half, but Sundowns never gave up. Iqraam Rayners and Lebo Mothiba pulled goals back, setting up a tense finish. Despite Sundowns’ late charge, Dortmund held on for a crucial victory, placing them atop Group F.
While Bellingham impressed, Sundowns’ vibrant attacking play and fearless approach earned widespread praise, despite their defensive lapses. Dortmund’s clinical finishing proved key, converting four of their eight shots on target, compared to Sundowns’ four from 16 attempts.
Next, Mamelodi Sundowns face Fluminense in Miami, while Borussia Dortmund take on Ulsan in Cincinnati, both on Wednesday.
