Rayners warns Sundowns not to ‘get ahead of ourselves’ after win in FIFA Club World Cup

Photo Credit – Mamelodi Sundowns FC.

Following their opening win at the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, Mamelodi Sundowns forward Iqraam Rayners has urged the team to stay grounded as they aim to progress from the group stage to the knockouts.

36' MAMELODI SUNDOWNS GOAL | Rayners

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Rayners needed just one clear sight of goal to give the South African champions the perfect start to their campaign, sealing a 1-0 victory over Ulsan HD at Inter & Co Stadium in Orlando. Tuesday night’s victory was the first win for an African team in this year’s competition in the United States.

“I’m over the moon with the victory. It was a huge opportunity for us and we grabbed it with both hands. Obviously, I’m really proud and happy to get myself on the scoresheet, but getting the three points is what pleases me most. We played as a team, and that’s the most important thing,” Rayners told FIFA.com.

“We kept moving the ball quickly. We knew how we needed to set up and how to play against Ulsan because our coach had thoroughly briefed us before the game. He gave us important tactical information that proved decisive on the pitch.

“However, we mustn’t get ahead of ourselves. We need to keep our heads and remain composed. It goes without saying that we’ll celebrate the victory, but then we’ll turn our focus to our next match against Borussia Dortmund, which will be a much sterner test,” said the Michelob Ultra Superior Player of the Match.

Group F had earlier opened with Fluminense’s 0-0 draw with Borussia Dortmund, so Sundowns top Group F after the first matchday, and are well-placed to reach the knockout rounds.