Ulsan HD vs Mamelodi Sundowns: Club World Cup Prediction (18.06.2025)

On June 18, 2025, at 05:00 WIB, the opening match of Group F in the Club World Cup between Ulsan and Mamelodi Sundowns will take place at Inter&Co Stadium in Orlando, Florida, USA. The group also includes Borussia Dortmund and Fluminense. According to bookmakers, both teams are evenly matched in terms of strength. Here’s a look at their current form and our prediction for the match.

Ulsan HD

The South Korean side arrives at the Club World Cup in the thick of their domestic league season, having already played 19 matches. However, their current performance this season has not been particularly impressive. Despite playing one more match, Ulsan trails league leaders Jeonbuk by 9 points. This is noteworthy considering Ulsan had won the Korean championship three years in a row.

There are no world-renowned stars in Ulsan’s squad. Their most recognizable player is Brazilian forward Eric Farias. Coach Kim Pan Gon usually opts for a 4-4-2 formation. Ulsan is one of the few teams in the tournament that is in full competitive form, while many others are in their off-season. It’s also worth noting that the team has spent the last two weeks entirely focused on preparing for the Club World Cup.

Mamelodi Sundowns

Mamelodi Sundowns are the dominant force in South African football. They have won the league title for the last seven seasons and have already secured the championship for an eighth straight year. Their technical and attractive playing style has earned them the nickname “the Brazilians.”

However, this tournament will be a real test for the South African side. Despite their dominance at home, they might struggle against international opponents. Their star player is Brazilian forward Lucas Ribeiro, who previously spent four years in Belgium, including with Charleroi and other lower-tier clubs. He is also the club’s most valuable asset, worth around €2.5 million, while the total market value of the team is estimated at about €35 million. In comparison, Ulsan’s squad is valued at approximately €15 million.

Stats and Head-to-Head Record

There is no previous head-to-head record between these teams. This will be their first ever meeting on the football field.

Prediction

It is difficult to predict a winner between Ulsan and Mamelodi Sundowns. Both teams are considered evenly matched and viewed as underdogs in their group. Each side will be eager to score and make a strong impression. In that light, a bet on “Both teams to score – Yes” at odds of 1.87 looks appealing. For the risk-takers, a 1-1 correct score bet at 6.40 could be considered.

However, since it’s hard to gauge what to expect from either team, a safer bet is recommended. Given that Ulsan is currently in mid-season form, betting on Ulsan with a draw no bet option at odds of 1.93 is a reasonable choice.