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6 Dec

Proud and Ready: Ronwen Williams on Sundowns’ Group F Challenge at Club World Cup

The inaugural FIFA Club World Cup 2025 is set to redefine global club football. For the first time, 32 of the world’s best teams from six international confederations will come together to compete for ultimate glory.

Scheduled to take place in the USA from June to July 2025, the tournament promises to deliver thrilling matches, unparalleled talent, and a celebration of the global football community.

South Africa will proudly be represented by Mamelodi Sundowns, the only team from the country to qualify for this prestigious event. Their inclusion is a significant achievement not only for the club but also for the nation and the African continent.

Held with great anticipation, the draw revealed the groups, placing Mamelodi Sundowns in Group F alongside Brazilian giants Fluminense, German powerhouse Borussia Dortmund, and South Korea’s Ulsan Hyundai.

As excitement builds, Sundowns’ journey to the Club World Cup symbolises a historic milestone for South African football.

Ronwen Williams Reflects on a Proud Moment

Mamelodi Sundowns captain and goalkeeper Ronwen Williams was full of emotion and pride following the Club World Cup draw. Speaking from Morocco, where the team is preparing for their CAF Champions League fixture, Williams described the moment as unforgettable.

“It was a wonderful draw, a wonderful setup,” Williams said, reflecting on the event. “To see the name Mamelodi Sundowns in a group with some of the best teams in the world—I’m still getting goosebumps from seeing our name up there. This is an amazing achievement for the club and for South Africa as a whole.”

The timing of the draw made it even more special for the team. “We were all together in camp when the draw happened, and seeing everyone’s reaction was a proud moment. It’s incredible to think that we’ll be representing not just our club but also our country on a global stage,” he added.

For Sundowns, participation in this tournament is not just about the opponents they’ll face but the honour of being among the world’s elite. Williams acknowledged the prestige of being included in such a high-profile event.

“Just being mentioned amongst the best and being part of such a prestigious event is already a victory. It’s so big that no matter which team you’re drawn against, you know you’re up against the best,” he explained.

While Williams admitted it would have been exciting to face Manchester City, a team he admires and his son supports, he expressed satisfaction with the draw. “We’re happy with our group. It’s a strong group, and we’re excited to test ourselves against these clubs.”

Group F presents a fascinating mix of challenges for Mamelodi Sundowns. The Brazilian side Fluminense, known for their fluid and creative play, shares similarities with Sundowns’ style. “They have similar traits to us in their build-up and structure of play, which will make for an interesting contest,” Williams noted.

The draw against Borussia Dortmund also carries emotional significance for Tashreeq Matthews, who previously played for the German club. “Tashreeq is over the moon about facing Dortmund, and it will be a special experience for him,” said Williams.

Completing the group is South Korea’s Ulsan Hyundai, a team that promises pace and intensity. “When we’re away in Korea, we know how fast and tough the games will be. It’s going to be a challenge, but we’re ready for it,” Williams stated confidently.

Beyond the excitement of the competition, Williams was struck by the design of the FIFA Club World Cup trophy. “The trophy is amazing. You can see the thought and storytelling behind its design. The engraved goals and the style reflect the history and legacy of football, which is truly inspiring,” he shared.

Being the only South African team to participate adds an extra layer of pride. “This is history. Mamelodi Sundowns being there is not just an achievement for us but for South Africa and Africa as a whole. It’s a moment that will inspire the youth to dream big and work hard, knowing that anything is possible,” Williams added.

The FIFA Club World Cup 2025 is more than just a football tournament for Mamelodi Sundowns; it’s an opportunity to showcase South African talent on an international platform. With Group F challenges ahead, the team is determined to represent their country with pride and prove their worth against the world’s best.

As anticipation builds for this groundbreaking event, Sundowns are ready to embrace their role as South Africa’s ambassadors. For fans and players alike, this moment is a testament to the club’s hard work, resilience, and dedication to excellence.

The world will be watching when Mamelodi Sundowns take to the field, not just as a football club but as a symbol of South Africa’s footballing legacy. This is history in the making—and the start of something truly extraordinary.

FIFA Club World Cup Groups

Group A

SE Palmeiras (BRA)

FC Porto (POR)

Al Ahly FC (EGY)

Inter Miami CF (USA)

Group B

Paris Saint-Germain (FRA)

Atlético de Madrid (ESP)

Botafogo (BRA)

Seattle Sounders FC (USA)

Group C

FC Bayern München (GER)

Auckland City FC (NZL)

CA Boca Juniors (ARG)

SL Benfica (POR)

Group D

CR Flamengo (BRA)

Espérance Sportive de Tunis (TUN)

Chelsea FC (ENG)

Club León (MEX)

Group E

CA River Plate (ARG)

Urawa Red Diamonds (JPN)

CF Monterrey (MEX)

FC Internazionale Milano (ITA)

Group F

Fluminense FC (BRA)

Borussia Dortmund (GER)

Ulsan HD (KOR)

Mamelodi Sundowns FC (RSA)

Group G

Manchester City (ENG)

Wydad AC (MAR)

Al Ain FC (UAE)

Juventus FC (ITA)

Group H

Real Madrid C. F. (ESP)

Al Hilal (KSA)

CF Pachuca (MEX)

FC Salzburg (AUT)

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