The stage is set for the newly expanded FIFA Club World Cup, which kicks off this month in the United States with 32 of the world’s best club sides. Among them are four African powerhouses — Al-Ahly SC (Egypt), Wydad Casablanca (Morocco), Espérance de Tunis (Tunisia), and Mamelodi Sundowns (South Africa) — all determined to make a mark on the global stage.
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The African quartet earned their places in the prestigious tournament based on performances in the CAF Champions League over the past five years. Al-Ahly and Wydad have both lifted the continental trophy in that period, while Espérance and Mamelodi Sundowns boast consistent high rankings in CAF competitions.
Group Stage Draw for African Teams:
Al-Ahly SC (Group A): FC Porto (Portugal), Palmeiras (Brazil), Inter Miami (United States)
Espérance (Group D): Flamengo (Brazil), Chelsea (England), LAFC (United States)
Mamelodi Sundowns (Group F): Fluminense (Brazil), Borussia Dortmund (Germany), Ulsan HD (South Korea)
Wydad (Group G): Manchester City (England), Al Ain (UAE), Juventus (Italy)
The revamped format increases the competition’s scale and stakes, offering African clubs a greater platform to challenge traditionally dominant European and South American sides.
While history suggests an uphill battle, the African representatives are not short of pedigree or ambition. Al-Ahly, the most successful club in Africa, and the likes of Mamelodi Sundowns — known for their tactical discipline and attacking flair — are expected to bring their trademark resilience and flair to the tournament.
With the eyes of the world on the United States, African clubs now have an unprecedented opportunity to showcase their quality, upset the giants, and perhaps even rewrite the narrative of global club football.
