The world’s biggest clubs are heading to the U.S. this summer, and Africa is coming with them. For the first time, the FIFA Club World Cup will feature 32 teams, and among them are four African powerhouses: Al Ahly, Wydad Casablanca, Mamelodi Sundowns, and ES Tunis.
For these clubs, it’s more than just another tournament. It’s a stage to prove that African football belongs at the top. And this time, the format gives them a fairer shot — eight groups of four, knockout rounds, and no third-place match. Just pure competition.
Al Ahly, with their unmatched pedigree in Africa, are used to pressure. Wydad bring grit and the kind of belief you can’t teach. Sundowns play with flair and confidence, and ES Tunis always seem to know how to win when it matters most.
“This tournament gives more opportunities to players who may not have had the chance to perform and win the World Cup with their national teams, allowing them to become world champions with their clubs,” said the former Chelsea star and FIFA Legend, Didier Drogba.
He added, “It’s a fantastic opportunity, especially for players from continents like Africa, where you don’t often see those teams on the biggest stages.”
This isn’t just about winning games. It’s about respect. About shaking off the old storylines. About showing that Africa’s best clubs can stand toe-to-toe with Europe’s giants and South America’s finest.
All 32 Qualified Teams
Europe: Chelsea, Man City, Real Madrid, Bayern, PSG, Inter, Porto, Benfica
South America: Palmeiras, Flamengo, Fluminense, River Plate, Boca Juniors
North America: Monterrey, León, Pachuca, Seattle Sounders
Africa: Al Ahly, Wydad AC, Mamelodi Sundowns, ES Tunis
Asia: Al Hilal, Urawa Reds, Al Ain, Ulsan Hyundai
Oceania: Auckland City
Host (USA): Inter Miami
