With Mamelodi Sundowns set to open their 2025 FIFA Club World Cup campaign against Ulsan HD, the South African giants will be looking to overcome an unwanted record against Asian opposition at the tournament.
Sundowns have previously only participated in the Club World Cup during the 2016 edition.
At the time, the club was led by coach Pitso Mosimane, who would later make a second appearance at the tournament in 2020 as Al Ahly boss.
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Downs’ debut campaign did not go as they would have hoped, with the Pretoria outfit suffering two defeats from as many matches—both against Asian opposition.
In their first game, Sundowns were handed a 2-0 defeat by Japanese top-flight side Kashima Antlers.
In their second match of the 2016 tournament, Masandawana were thumped 4-1 by Korean outfit Jeonbuk Motors, with Percy Tau scoring their only goal.
Now managed by Miguel Cardoso, Sundowns will aim to not only claim their first-ever win at the Club World Cup but also end their losing streak against Asian opponents at the tournament.
Downs kick off the new campaign against Ulsan HD on Wednesday morning at 00:00 South African time.
According to Star News Korea, Ulsan goalkeeper Jo Hyeon-woo said: "It could be a tough match because we have never played against other teams before.
"It will be a great help to Korean football for a K-League team to participate in the Club World Cup. I hope that the Club World Cup will be an opportunity for me to grow as an individual through my experience.”
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By Lukhanyo Mtuta
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