Iqraam Rayners netted the match-winner in the first half, calmly finishing a well-timed assist from Lucas Ribeiro. His earlier strike had been chalked off for handball, and he was later denied a brace when a second effort was ruled offside. Teboho Mokoena also tested Ulsan keeper Jo Hyeon-woo with a stinging free-kick.
Led by newly appointed Portuguese coach Miguel Cardoso, Sundowns now sit atop Group F after the other fixture between Fluminense and Borussia Dortmund ended goalless. Cardoso lauded his side’s composure and tactical discipline, calling it “a beautiful first half” and acknowledging the landmark achievement – Sundowns are now the first African team to win a match in the newly expanded Club World Cup format.
Ulsan pushed hard for an equalizer in the second half, with Erick Farias missing one of their best chances. Tashreeq Matthews could have doubled Sundowns’ lead in the dying moments but failed to capitalise on a counterattack.
This victory marks Sundowns’ first-ever win at a Club World Cup, having lost both of their matches in the 2016 edition. The result not only boosts their chances of progression but also adds a significant milestone to African football’s growing presence on the global stage.
