Mamelodi Sundowns are on the cusp of making history. After a commanding 1-0 victory over Ulsan HD, they’ve surged to the top of Group F in the FIFA Club World Cup, now just one win away from securing a coveted spot in the last 16.
Form Guide
While the scoreline against Ulsan might suggest a tight affair, Sundowns’ performance was anything but. Iqraam Rayners, who netted the decisive goal, had two other strikes disallowed, and Miguel Cardoso’s side asserted their dominance by controlling an impressive 68% of possession. It was a composed display that showcased their potential beyond the narrow victory.
The match also delighted Sundowns fans with the highly anticipated return of club legend Themba ‘Mshishi’ Zwane. He not only started but also reclaimed the captain’s armband in his first appearance after a nine-month injury layoff. Adding to the defensive solidity, Keanu Cupido, a surprise inclusion at centre-back, proved his worth with a crucial late intervention that preserved the clean sheet.
Read: Lucrative Rewards Await Mamelodi Sundowns in Club World Cup Clash Against Borussia Dortmund
Despite these positives, familiar issues did surface. The Brazilians’ ongoing struggle to convert chances and occasional lapses in defensive concentration—reminiscent of their CAF Champions League final defeat to Pyramids FC—meant they had to battle hard to secure the win. Against a team of Dortmund’s calibre, such errors will undoubtedly be exploited.
Borussia Dortmund, under coach Niko Kovac, arrive at this match under scrutiny. Their opening goalless draw against Fluminense highlighted a team with flashes of quality but a noticeable lack of rhythm and sharpness in the final third.
Compounding their challenges, they’ll be without key players Nico Schlotterbeck and Emre Can, both sidelined with injuries. That being said, the debut of Jobe Bellingham off the bench in their opener offers a glimmer of hope; his energy and dynamism could provide a much-needed boost in midfield.
Player Spotlight
For Sundowns dangerman Tashreeq Matthews, this clash carries extra personal significance. Having spent part of his formative years in Dortmund’s youth system, he’ll be eager to make an impact if given the opportunity from the bench. While his intelligent movement has been evident, his final touch in recent appearances has left something to be desired.
On the other hand, Lebo Mothiba also remains an option off the bench for Cardoso, though he’s unlikely to displace Rayners, who’s riding a wave of confidence after scoring in consecutive matches.
How to watch
The match is scheduled to kick-off at 18:00 on Saturday, 21 June and will be carried live satellite TV giants SuperSport channel 203 and can be streamed on Showmax.
Betting odds (supplied by Hollywoodbets)
To win (90 min)
Mamelodi Sundowns 56/10 | Draw 32/10 | Dortmund 4/10
Whilst Sundowns did claim maximum points in their opening clash at the FIFA Club World Cup, Borussia Dortmund had to settle for a point. With pressure on Nico Kovac & Co, I am expecting the German heavyweights to come out firing on all cylinders.
I think the play is Sundowns 1 – 2 Dortmund at 7/1!