A thrilling encounter at the FIFA Club World Cup saw Borussia Dortmund narrowly defeat Mamelodi Sundowns 4-3 in a Group F match held at TQL Stadium in Cincinnati, Ohio on Saturday. Jobe Bellingham, the younger brother of Real Madrid star Jude Bellingham, marked his first start for the Bundesliga giants with a memorable goal, contributing to Dortmund's victory in a game filled with twists and turns.

Mamelodi Sundowns, the South African champions, initially took the lead in the 11th minute through a brilliant solo effort by Lucas Ribeiro, who surged from his own half to slot the ball past Dortmund's goalkeeper Gregor Kobel. However, Dortmund responded swiftly, capitalizing on an error by Sundowns' goalkeeper Ronwen Williams, who gifted the ball to Felix Nmecha for an easy finish.

The game continued at a frenetic pace, with both teams creating opportunities. Dortmund took the lead in the 34th minute when Julian Brandt's cross found Serhou Guirassy, who headed home powerfully. Just before halftime, Jobe Bellingham extended Dortmund's advantage, volleying home from the edge of the box after Williams parried Brandt's cross into his path. Bellingham's goal was his first for Dortmund since joining the club from Sunderland earlier this month. He later expressed his delight, stating he had practiced that type of shot countless times. Celebrating the goal, Bellingham appeared to mimic his brother Jude's iconic celebration.

Sundowns emerged for the second half with renewed energy and determination. However, an own goal by Khuliso Mudau in the 59th minute further compounded their woes, increasing Dortmund's lead to 4-1. Despite the setback, the South African side refused to give up. Iqraam Rayners reduced the deficit in the 62nd minute, pouncing on a loose ball after a free-kick. Lebo Mothiba added another goal in the final minute, side-footing home from close range, but it proved to be too little, too late, as Dortmund held on to secure the win.

Dortmund's coach, Niko Kovac, acknowledged the challenging conditions, having previously suggested that teams from the "south" might have an advantage due to the heat. The win puts Dortmund in a strong position to advance to the knockout stages of the Club World Cup.

For Jobe Bellingham, the match was a significant milestone in his burgeoning career. Having recently followed in his brother's footsteps by joining Dortmund, his first goal for the club marks a promising start to his time in Germany.