Mamelodi Sundowns will play home side Kashima Antlers in the FIFA Club World Cup after the latter won their place in the quarterfinals of the competition on Thursday.

Antlers defeated New Zealand side Auckland City 2-1 to set up a meeting with African champions Sundowns on Sunday (12h30 South African time).

They had to do it the hard way‚ coming from behind against the Kiwis‚ who started with South African-born Ryan de Vries.

It was a deserved victory as Antlers dominated possession and created the most chances.

The home side looked as though they would be frustrated after South Korean Kim Daewook gave City the lead on the hour-mark.

But the Japanese champions‚ who earned their place in the competition thanks to their country hosting the tournament‚ drew level through striker Shuhei Akasaki.

It looked as though the match was headed for extra-time before Japanese international Mu Kanazaki bundled home a header to put his side in front two minutes from time.

They were able to play out the final part of the game to ensure some Japanese representation in the quarterfinals.

The winner of the tie between Antlers and Sundowns on Sunday will face Colombian side Atlético Nacional in the semifinals on December 14. - TMG Digital