Mamelodi Sundowns Face Fluminense and Dortmund – Can They Qualify for CWC Top 16?

Mamelodi Sundowns are on the brink of a massive opportunity as they prepare to launch their FIFA Club World Cup campaign in the United States. The South African champions, who continue to make waves in African football, now face the ultimate test on the global stage. They have a real chance to advance into the tournament’s top 16.

Their journey begins on Wednesday, 18 June, against Ulsan HD from South Korea. It is followed by a high-profile clash with Bundesliga giants Borussia Dortmund on 21 June. The group stage concludes with an exciting encounter against Brazilian outfit Fluminense on 25 June.

A Fixture That Sets the Tone

According to former Sundowns midfield maestro Roger Feutmba, the opening fixture against Ulsan is crucial. Speaking to Soccer Laduma, the Cameroonian legend stressed that a strong start could set the tone for the rest of the campaign.

“This is the key game,” Feutmba said. “We respect Ulsan, but with the talent we have, I believe we can match them. It’s about self-belief and playing to our strengths.”

Feutmba, who played a pivotal role in Sundowns’ success in the early 2000s, remains optimistic despite the group’s difficulty. He believes that with discipline, confidence, and courage, Masandawana could surprise even their more favoured opponents.

Belief Against the Best

While Dortmund presents a daunting task, Feutmba points out that football often defies expectations. With many Sundowns players already gaining international experience — and some tipped for European moves — the gap in quality isn’t insurmountable.

“They may not be on Dortmund’s level yet, but the game isn’t played on paper. If they stay composed and fearless, they have a fighting chance,” he added.

Sundowns must also avoid showing too much respect to bigger-name sides. Confidence will be key. Moreover, the leadership of senior players like Themba Zwane and Denis Onyango, both veterans of the club’s previous Club World Cup appearance in 2016, will be important.

A Familiar Style Awaits

The final group match against Fluminense could well be the most entertaining. Feutmba believes the similarities in playing style between the two sides — both favouring possession-based football — could make for an open and exciting contest.

“With Brazilian flair already in our squad, it’s a matchup that could go either way. We’re in a group that gives us a fair shot at making the next round,” he said.

Indeed, Sundowns’ style — structured, calm, and attack-minded — has brought them plenty of success in Africa. Now, the challenge is to adapt that same philosophy on a global platform without losing their identity.

Lessons from 2016 and Newfound Maturity

This isn’t Sundowns’ first venture onto the global scene. In 2016, under Pitso Mosimane, they participated in the Club World Cup but bowed out early with two defeats. That experience, however, was a valuable learning curve.

Now older, wiser, and more experienced, the Brazilians return with a deeper squad. They boast players with years of CAF Champions League exposure. Some even featured in Bafana Bafana’s recent third-place finish at AFCON.

The expanded 32-team format gives them a better shot at progression. Instead of a knockout entry point, they get three matches to make a statement. This structure favours consistency and depth.

Flying the Flag for Local Football

A strong performance in this tournament won’t just elevate Sundowns’ reputation. It would also raise the profile of the Premier Soccer League and football in our country.

Should they make the top 16, it would mark a milestone for South African football. Additionally, it would serve as a springboard for greater recognition of local talent on the world stage.

With the right mentality, tactical flexibility, and trust in their system, Mamelodi Sundowns are well-positioned to do more than just participate. They could make history.

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