Bellingham scores on debut as Dortmund beats Sundowns in 4-3 thriller

Jobe Bellingham Nets on Debut as Dortmund Edge Thriller Against Mamelodi Sundowns
Sundowns Shine but Fall Short in Seven-Goal Club World Cup Clash Jobe Bellingham scored his first goal for Borussia Dortmund as the German giants came from behind to claim a thrilling 4-3 win over South Africa’s Mamelodi Sundowns in their opening victory at the Club World Cup.

The 18-year-old, making his full debut following a £27m transfer from Sunderland, found the net just before half-time to help swing the contest Dortmund’s way after a lively start from the South African champions.

Sundowns stunned their European opponents early on when Lucas Ribeiro Costa embarked on a solo run from midfield and slotted past Gregor Kobel in the 11th minute. However, their lead was short-lived as goalkeeper Ronwen Williams gifted an equaliser by misplacing a pass directly to Felix Nmecha, who made no mistake with the open goal.

Despite the setback, Sundowns continued to press with purpose. Iqraam Rayners spurned a pair of opportunities, and Tashreeq Matthews caused chaos down the left flank with his pace and footwork. But another mistake proved costly, as Dortmund pounced high up the pitch and Julian Brandt’s lofted cross was expertly headed home by Serhou Guirassy for his 35th goal of the season.

Moments later, Bellingham took centre stage. With the ball falling kindly to him in the box, he controlled it on his chest and fired home with a deflected effort to give Dortmund a 3-1 lead at the break.

Sundowns Earn Plaudits Despite Defensive Lapses

Although Dortmund looked to have seized control, Sundowns continued to push after the interval. Kobel was called into action again, tipping Rayners’ shot onto the crossbar—though it was later flagged for offside. Teboho Mokoena also went close with a deflected free-kick that skimmed narrowly over.

Dortmund added a fourth when Daniel Svensson’s low cross was turned into his own net by Khuliso Mudau. Still, Sundowns fought back with spirit, as Rayners bundled the ball home after hitting the post and substitute Lebo Mothiba finished a late break to make it 4-3 in the 90th minute. Dortmund, however, held on to go top of Group F with four points.

Key Performances and Takeaways

While Bellingham’s composed performance and goal on debut caught the eye, it was Sundowns’ attacking trio—Ribeiro Costa, Rayners, and Matthews—who lit up the first half. Costa’s solo strike was arguably the goal of the tournament so far, showcasing flair and acceleration rarely seen on this stage.

Despite defensive errors proving costly, Sundowns left a strong impression with their fearless attacking display, earning admiration well beyond South Africa.

Statistically, Dortmund made their chances count—scoring four goals from six shots on target. Sundowns, by contrast, managed just four shots on target from 16 attempts, highlighting their wastefulness in front of goal.

Next Fixtures

Mamelodi Sundowns will wrap up their group campaign against Brazilian side Fluminense in Miami on Wednesday at 20:00 BST. Borussia Dortmund, meanwhile, face Ulsan Hyundai in Cincinnati at the same time.