Every African should be proud of Mamelodi Sundowns. If even those with no African roots can admire what they’ve done, then surely, we must celebrate them.
The South African champions were unarguably the best African side at the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup.
They fought with heart and pride, staying competitive until the very end.
Former Uganda Cranes goalkeeper and captain Denis Onyango’s Sundowns collected four points in Group F, finishing third.
None of the other three African clubs in the tournament managed to match that tally.
The closest challenger was Esperance (Tunisia) in Group D, who earned three points after a 1–0 win over Los Angeles FC.
Their fellow North Africans, Wydad Casablanca, finished joint bottom of Group G with Al Ain, both without a single point.
Wydad, however, placed third based on a better goal difference of -5.
Africa’s most successful club, Al Ahly (Egypt), struggled in Group A, managing just two points and finishing rock bottom of the table.
Masandawana Showed Heart and Class
Mamelodi Sundowns’ 1–0 win over Ulsan Hyundai and a goalless draw with Fluminense accounted for their four points.
But what those results don’t fully reflect is the tenacity, quality, and ambition they showed on the pitch.
Their most spirited performance came in a seven-goal thriller against Borussia Dortmund.
Though the Bundesliga giants edged them 4–3, it was Sundowns who lit up the contest, pressing and pushing to the final whistle.
Their clash with Fluminense was equally intense, a go-for-broke effort where only a goal separated them from qualification.
Despite their best attempts, they couldn’t break down the Brazilians and secure the vital three points.
A Lone Shining Light for Africa
In terms of stats:
Sundowns scored four goals and collected four points
Esperance scored once, conceded five.
Al Ahly netted four, but let in six.
Wydad managed one goal and conceded six.
Mamelodi Sundowns may not have advanced past the group stage, but their display was nothing short of inspiring.
They showed African excellence on the world stage and reminded the football world of the continent’s growing strength.
The Final Word
Africa will be proud of Mamelodi Sundowns. Yes, none of the four representatives made it past the groups, but Sundowns gave the continent hope, showing that African clubs can go toe-to-toe with the world’s best.
Masandawana may be out, but they’ve left with heads held high, and hearts full of pride.
