Sports

Sundowns Win Hearts: Henry & Kovac Sing Praises in 2025 Club World Cup

Published

2 months ago

June 30, 2025

Chiraag

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From the streets of Pretoria to the world stage – how Sundowns shone with style

Mamelodi Sundowns may have exited the FIFA Club World Cup at the group stage, but what they walked away with was arguably more valuable than silverware – global respect. While giants like Borussia Dortmund and Fluminense progressed, the South African champions left a lasting impression on the world of football.

And now, football royalty is paying attention.

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“They made Africa proud” – Thierry Henry

Legendary French striker and global pundit Thierry Henry couldn’t stop smiling when reflecting on Sundowns’ Group F performance. Despite finishing third with just four points, the Pretoria-based side won his admiration for their fearless approach.

“They were the one team that truly brought excitement to the game,” Henry said in a post-match interview shared across social platforms. “Their style kept you on the edge of your seat.”

With only one loss – a nail-biting 4–3 defeat to Borussia Dortmund – Sundowns didn’t just show up; they showed out. Henry called their football “beautiful,” praising their sharp, confident attackers and composed build-up play. His verdict? They belonged.

“They were the only African team that looked like they belonged at this level. They made Africa proud.”

“An educated game” – Dortmund’s coach joins the chorus

Borussia Dortmund coach Niko Kovac, whose side narrowly edged Sundowns in Ohio, was just as impressed. He described the match as a “test” and called Sundowns “a football team that likes to play football very well – an educated game.”

His remarks added weight to the growing global recognition of the South African club’s playing identity: possession-based, technically sound, and bold in attack.

“We saw how hard it was to play against Sundowns,” Kovac admitted. “They challenged us in every way.”

Style over fear: A tactical shift for African football

Sundowns’ approach defied long-standing assumptions about African clubs on the global stage. Instead of sitting deep and absorbing pressure, they took the game to their opponents. Against Fluminense and Ulsan HD, they maintained high possession and moved with rhythm, intent, and structure.

Their 1–0 win over Ulsan was well-earned, and even in defeat, they scored three past Dortmund – a feat few teams manage.

This was not just participation. This was a footballing philosophy on full display.

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Image 1: Football London

Public love and a cultural moment

Social media in South Africa lit up with pride. Fans hailed the team’s bravery and quality. “We’re not just representing, we’re competing,” one X (formerly Twitter) user wrote. Another chimed in: “They didn’t just show heart – they showed class.”

Even in the stands, Sundowns fans made noise. Around 50 travelling supporters turned heads in Ohio and Miami Gardens with vibrant chanting, flags, and unmistakable yellow. Neutral fans joined in. Local samba dancers even celebrated with them post-match.

This wasn’t just football – it was a cultural moment.

History, hope, and what’s next

Mamelodi Sundowns have long been known as Bafana ba Style – “the Boys with Style” – for their signature “Shoe-Shine and Piano” football. Founded in the 1970s and a dominant force in the South African league, their recent CAF Champions League runs and domestic titles have set the foundation.

But 2025 feels different.

This was the year they earned the world’s attention – and respect. And if Henry’s final words are anything to go by, they’re just getting started: