Mamelodi Sundowns rank among top 20 clubs in the world

After pulling off a string of impressive performances at this year’s FIFA Club World Cup and narrowly falling short of a spot in the round of 16, Mamelodi Sundowns have ranked as the 18th best club by the tournament.

With Chelsea FC emerging as the underdogs and pulling off a 3-0 win against the highly rated Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) to secure the FIFA Club World Cup title, the popular tournament has officially come to an end. It has also put a lot of things into perspective for various teams.

Prior to heading for Los Angeles for the FIFA Club World Cup, Mamelodi Sundowns had drawn some skepticism, as fans and viewers expressed doubt in their ability to compete accordingly against some of the world’s top football clubs.

However, once there, the Brazilians let their game speak for itself, proving that their level of football has reached a standard that can compete and win against these teams.

Shocking everyone, Masandawana pulled off a string of some impressive performances, finishing off with one win, one draw, and one loss. Despite narrowly missing out on the round of 16, the trip was not a total waste for coach Miguel Cardoso and his talented squad. They left as the first African club to win a match at this year’s showing, and gained the favour of countless fans from across the world, who were impressed by their resilient spirit.

Mamelodi Sundowns 🇿🇦 become the first African team to win at this year’s FIFA Club World Cup 🌍💛

A full team effort:
👟 Rayners’ finish
🎯 Ribeiro’s vision
🧠 Mokoena’s control
🔙 Zwane’s flow
🛡️ Lunga’s heroics
🚫 Mudau being Mudau

Who stood out for you?#Sundowns #FIFACWC pic.twitter.com/Ipe4AwiIHX

— Our African Football (@ourAfricanFooty) June 18, 2025

After their incredible performances, the team, who have quickly become South Africa’s pride and joy have secured the position as the 18th best football club in the world, as per the FIFA Club World Cup standings. Placing them over some notable international teams, including their fellow African rivalries Esperance and Al Ahly, Masandawana become the highest ranked African team.

Mamelodi Sundowns have been ranked number 18 in the FIFA Club World Cup, the South African giants ranked above European teams like Salzburg and Porto 💛👆 pic.twitter.com/uO3BFvFlV0

— Sundowns Xtra (@SundownsXtra_) July 14, 2025

Also see: The Republic of Commissions of Inquiries: Citizens react to President Ramaphosa