Mamelodi Sundowns win new fans in America thanks to Club World Cup heroics

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Mamelodi Sundowns’ fearless display at the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup has been lauded around the world but now, it is also adding to their fanbase.

Sundowns have been one of the most entertaining teams at the tournament after their 1-0 win over Ulsan HD was followed by a thrilling 4-3 loss to Borussia Dortmund when they almost caused an upset.

The Brazilians took the game to the Bundesliga giants and were rewarded with an early goal although mistakes and poor finishing cost them three points but they left a great impression on supporters, some who have now declared allegiance to the team.

“I want to give a special shoutout to my Mamelodi Sundowns, new fan here, loved the way they play,” a fan in Cincinnati said in a clip posted online.

Sundowns’ yellow and green approved in Cincinnati

“Loved the heart, love the determination, taking it right to Borussia Dortmund, making it seven goals, loved it and I am officially declaring the yellow and green is appropriate soccer attire here in Cincinnati.

“You can wear this yellow, this badge right here, the way they played and took it to Dortmund, they had multiple chances to win that game, just fun, awesome. The Club World Cup is a blast for the city, soccer in America.”

Lucas Ribeiro and fans at Club World Cup. Photo- Imago

So impressed is Sundowns’ new fan that he has confidence that Miguel Cardoso’s team will beat Fluminense on Wednesday and make it to the Round of 16.

“This was the coolest thing, the vibes were immaculate in this game, shoutout to the Sundowns supporters going hard in the heat 90 minutes plus just cool vibes, good atmosphere. Big match on Wednesday, Sundowns are going through to the knockout stage,” he added.

Who else has nothing but love for the Brazilians?

The love for Sundowns did not end there, there were more asking how they could get the club’s shirt after getting impressed by their game.

“Need to get myself a Mamelodi Sundowns shirt… They seem to simultaneously represent the past and future of football. Chaotic and raw in rest defence – feels amateurish but there’s a courage to their possession play that is so refreshing… such freedom of expression,” @pythaginboots posted on X.

To show just how great Sundowns have been, Troll Football, an X account known to throw jibes at football teams and players, had nothing but love for the PSL champions.

The account posted photos of the two teams separately, describing how Dortmund won the game but Sundowns won their hearts.

Sundowns can win more hearts and fans with another great display against Fluminense on Wednesday as they need victory to advance to the Round of 16.

<!-- Author Start -->Joel Oliver<!-- Author End -->

Joel Oliver

Author

Joel Oliver is a seasoned multimedia sports journalist with a rich background in covering diverse football stories and events in South Africa and beyond.
His extensive coverage spans subjects touching on the PSL, with a focus on the Big Three (Orlando Pirates, Kaizer Chiefs & Mamelodi Sundowns), Bafana Bafana and Banyana Banyana.