With just five months until the inaugural FIFA Club World Cup 2025 kicks off, Africa’s four representatives—Al Ahly (Egypt), Esperance Sportive de Tunis (Tunisia), Mamelodi Sundowns (South Africa), and Wydad Athletic Club (Morocco)—are gearing up to showcase their talent on the global stage. The tournament, scheduled from June 14 to July 13, 2025, will be held in the United States, featuring 32 of the world’s top clubs.

African champions Al Ahly are riding high after a stunning hat-trick by Emam Ashour secured a win against Stade d’Abidjan, confirming their place in the CAF Champions League quarterfinals. The Egyptians will open the Club World Cup against Inter Miami on June 14 at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami. They share Group A with Brazilian side Palmeiras and Portuguese giants Porto.

Esperance, fresh off a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Djoliba in Bamako, will begin their Group D campaign against Flamengo (Brazil) on June 16 in Atlanta. The Tunisian powerhouse will also face Chelsea (England) and Leon (Mexico) in a challenging group.

Mamelodi Sundowns, nicknamed “The Brazilians,” continued their impressive CAF Champions League run with a 2-1 away win over AS Maniema Union. Drawn in Group F, the South African giants will face Ulsan Hyundai (South Korea) on June 17 in Orlando, Borussia Dortmund (Germany) on June 21 in Cincinnati, and Fluminense (Brazil) on June 25 in Miami.

Meanwhile, Wydad Athletic Club maintained momentum with a domestic league win over Union Tourga, although they’ve been absent from recent CAF Champions League action. They look forward to representing Morocco at the Club World Cup and showcasing their strength on the world stage.

The tournament has drawn praise from football legends, including Didier Drogba, who views the competition as a transformative moment for global football, particularly for developing continents like Africa. “This will provide players from Africa a chance to shine at the biggest stage, improve infrastructure, and elevate local leagues,” Drogba told Goal Africa.

With 32 teams from six confederations set to participate, the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 promises to be a landmark event, creating new opportunities and inspiring players and fans alike.