FIFACWC: “Sundowns must quickly put behind tournament disappointment” – Rayners

Photo Credit - Mamelodi Sundowns.

South African giants, Mamelodi Sundowns bowed out of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup with their heads high after clocking four points from three group matches.

The Stylish Guys needed a win to qualify for the round of 16 but they could only manage a goalless draw against Brazil outfit, Fluminense at the Hard Rock Stadium on Wednesday, June 25.

Masandawana in the process finished third in Group F on four points, one behind second placed Fluminense and three away from leaders Dortmund. Rayners, who scored Sundowns only goal at the tournament in their 1-0 win over Korean club Ulsan Hyundai, spoke to the media after their exit.

“I think we played well in the first half and even in the second half. We had the opportunity to score but unfortunately it didn’t happen. A bit disappointed but we have to move on quickly,” Rayners told the media.

The 29-year-old had positive comments about the traveling fans who thronged to the Hard Rock Stadium to offer their unflinching support to the club.

“The fans are always behind us even when we played at home, they supported us through the season. So I am just happy, I just want to tell Masandawana supporters, be behind us and we love you guys.”

The Brazilians defeated Ulsan Hyundai by 1-0 in the first match, losing to 4-3 to Dortmund in the second game before wrapping up the group matches with a stalemate against Fluminense.

Sundowns, who won the Premier Soccer League title last season, will turn attention to next season’s continental and domestic competitions after losing last term’s CAF Champions League to Egypt side, Pyramids.