Mamelodi Sundowns fell just short of reaching the knockout rounds of the FIFA Club World Cup, but overall it was a positive campaign for The Brazilians, who will have won over many new admirers for their positive football.
A 1-0 win over South Korean side Ulsan was followed by a thrilling 4-3 defeat to German giants Borussia Dortmund, before they finished with a 0-0 draw versus Brazilian outfit Fluminense.
We look at five players who enhanced their reputations at the tournament in the United States.
KEANU CUPIDO
The centre-back had barely played for Sundowns since a January arrival from Cape Town City, so was a surprise pick to start all three games. But he took his chance superbly, showing his mobility and reading of the game.
Perhaps his speed across the ground and ability to handle agile attackers was the reason for his inclusion, and he did not disappoint. At just 27, he still has more growth as a player in him.
KHULISO MUDAU
The right wing-back worked tirelessly in all three games, playing every minute of the tournament. He was sound defensively as the team kept two clean sheets in their three games, and offered much in attack.
At the age of 30 it may be tough to get a move abroad but there will certainly be many teams who took notice of his strong performances.
DIVINE LUNGA
On the other flank, wing-back Lunga looked a player reborn with three strong performances. He was also little used in the last campaign – in the domestic league certainly but brought all his experience as a Zimbabwe international to the Club World Cup.
His energy, work rate and quality on the ball made him s stand-out performer. He is also 30, so it may be too late to go overseas.
LUCAS RIBEIRO
A goal and an assist for the Brazilian, he carried his strong form from the 2024-25 PSL season into the Club World Cup. He can at time frustrate, but that is because he tries the unusual to get Sundowns into the front foot.
He was always busy and looking for work, and took his tally for the campaign to 21 goals, a superb return. Can Sundowns keep the 26-year-old for next season?
IQRAAM RAYNERS
The forward scored two well-taken goals and had two more chalked off by the Video Assistant Referee. He was lively throughout with his pace troubling defenders and has certainly matured as a footballer since joining Sundowns from Stellenbosch at the start of this season.
The 29-year-old took his goals tally for the season to 24, showcasing just why Sundowns brought him to Chloorkop. There will no doubt be interest from overseas clubs.