Ulsan HD and Mamelodi Sundowns reveal starting XIs for 2025 FIFA Club World Cup clash

South Korea’s Ulsan HD and South Africa’s Mamelodi Sundowns have confirmed their starting line-ups ahead of their much-anticipated meeting at the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup.

The Group Stage encounter brings together two of the most consistent clubs from their respective continents, each hoping to make an early statement in the tournament.

With kick-off fast approaching, both teams have announced their official matchday selections.

Ulsan HD starting XI:
Hyeon-woo Jo will stand between the posts for the K League outfit.

He is protected by a back line that includes Myeong-Kwan, Milosz Trojak, and veteran defender Young-Gwon Kim.

Swedish winger Gustav Ludwigson will provide width and attacking threat, while Woo-Young Jung and Darijan Bojanic form the central midfield duo.

Attacking responsibilities will be shared among Won-Sang Um, Seung-beom Ko, Chung-young Lee, and Brazilian forward Erick Farias, who will be key to unlocking the Sundowns defence.

Mamelodi Sundowns starting XI:
Ronwen Williams starts in goal for the South African champions, anchoring a defensive unit comprising Divine Lunga, Keanu Cupido, Grant Kekana, and Khuliso Mudau.

In midfield, Teboho Mokoena and Chilean international Marcelo Allende will look to control the tempo and transition quickly into attack.

Themba Zwane, a veteran playmaker, is joined by Arthur Sales and Lucas Ribeiro in the forward line.

Iqraam Rayners, who has been in excellent form domestically, completes the attack and will lead the line for the Brazilians.

The selections reflect each coach’s tactical plan, with Ulsan opting for a blend of international experience and local energy, while Sundowns rely on their dynamic, attacking core and technical precision.

Both sides are known for their fluid styles and disciplined structures, promising an intriguing tactical battle on the pitch.

This clash represents a critical opportunity for both clubs to advance in the competition and assert themselves on the global stage.

With domestic dominance already proven, the Club World Cup offers a chance to step into the international spotlight.

The match not only pits two continental champions against one another but also highlights the growing quality of club football across Asia and Africa.

All eyes now turn to the pitch as the opening whistle nears.