Mamelodi Sundowns at the FIFA Club World Cup: Teko Modise on why this is more than just a tournament

26 Jun, 2025 13 minutes de lecture 30 vues

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Mamelodi Sundowns at the FIFA Club World Cup: Teko Modise on why this is more than just a tournament

When football icon Teko Modise speaks, you listen. And as Mamelodi Sundowns gear up for their FIFA Club World Cup journey, Modise makes it clear: this isn’t just about chasing silverware — it’s about transformation, growth, and flying the flag for African football on the world stage.

“Playing against all those different teams with different philosophies will definitely challenge Mamelodi Sundowns to elevate not just their game but their approach as well,” Modise tells

The former midfield maestro believes the Brazilians will be forced out of their comfort zone, trading familiar dominance for adaptation as they face opponents like German titans Borussia Dortmund and South American champions Fluminense.

Sundowns, celebrated for their fluid “Shoe Shine & Piano” style — a rhythmic, possession-heavy game — are used to dictating tempo. But at this level, Modise warns, they’ll need to rethink that script.

1024 — Fifa Club World Cup Trophy, Image: Supplied

“They’ll have to deal with challenges they maybe haven’t faced before — the speed of Dortmund, the possession emphasis of Fluminense,” he explains. “That means learning to adjust, to unlearn bad habits, and to grow.”

The so-called “Group of Death” — featuring Sundowns, Dortmund, Fluminense, and Ulsan HD — isn’t just a tough draw; it’s an invitation for evolution. Modise sees this as a priceless opportunity for both team and individual development.

“The experience itself will teach them a lot,” he says. “Seeing difficulties as valuable lessons helps manage expectations while showing the club’s hunger to adapt at the highest level.”

And it’s not just about tactics. Modise points to the mental toughness required when facing elite opposition. “Such high-profile opponents force you to unlearn bad habits that you mostly get away with because of familiar rivals,” he reflects. “It triggers mental and physical challenges, and it’s only then you find solutions — as a team and as individuals.”

Yet amidst all the talk of change, Modise urges balance. “It’s important Sundowns stick to their identity. You have to play your own game regardless,” he insists. He believes the team's recent continental triumphs give them the confidence to do so. “The experience of winning in Africa will remind them of the importance of collective strength, belief in each other, and trust in their preparation.”

But this mission is about more than just Sundowns. Modise sees the Club World Cup as a stage where the Pretoria giants represent an entire continent. “The biggest statement they can make is to show how talented they are, the football they play, and how far African football has come,” he says. “It’s about showing no fear, playing with the arrogance to win, to dominate — and to remind the world that African clubs belong at this level.”

For Modise — a player whose own style embodied the flair and swagger of the streets — Sundowns' philosophy is a reflection of something deeper.

“If there’s one thing we can pride ourselves in, it’s the flair and mobility we possess. I would play how I would in the streets — to disrupt their rhythm while projecting mine,” he shares. “Sundowns aren’t just playing football; they’re performing an art form that’s proudly African.”

As the Football World watches, Modise sums up what’s at stake: “The bigger idea is that every pass, tackle, and goal from Sundowns in this tournament will be seen as a sign of African football’s standing in the world.”