The 2025 FIFA Club World Cup has officially kicked off with global anticipation, boasting a record €1 billion (₦1.55 trillion) in prize money for participating teams — a sharp evolution from its past editions. This inaugural 32-team format promises top-tier action, and although no Nigerian club is involved, the country’s flag will still be flown by five young stars vying for both glory and a piece of the $125 million minimum prize for the winners.

Among these five Nigerian players, only one has previously donned the Super Eagles jersey — left-back Zaidu Sanusi, who currently plies his trade with FC Porto. The remaining four, all of whom are still developing their careers, include Rilwanu Sarki, Hassan Muhammed, and Joshua Udoh from UAE powerhouse Al Ain, and Onuche Ogbelu from Tunisia’s Esperance.

Here’s a closer look at these promising Nigerians hoping to make their mark on football’s biggest club stage:

1. Zaidu Sanusi (FC Porto)

A familiar name to Super Eagles fans, Zaidu Sanusi is the most experienced among the quintet. The Porto left-back has made 22 appearances for Nigeria since his debut in 2020. Though absent from recent national team selections, Sanusi remains a key figure for Porto and will face stiff competition in Group A against Al Ahly, Inter Miami, and Palmeiras.

2. Rilwanu Sarki (Al Ain)

Once a bright spark for Nigeria’s Flying Eagles, 21-year-old winger Rilwanu Sarki now plays for Al Ain in the UAE. Having featured at both the U-20 Africa Cup of Nations and FIFA U-20 World Cup, Sarki is eager to impress on a senior global stage. Al Ain finds itself in Group G alongside Manchester City, Juventus, and Wydad Casablanca.

3. Hassan Muhammed (Al Ain)

Just 18 years old, Hassan Muhammed serves as one of Al Ain’s reserve goalkeepers. Though unlikely to see significant playing time, the young shot-stopper is soaking up invaluable experience on one of football’s biggest platforms. With patience and hard work, he could rise through the ranks.

4. Joshua Udoh (Al Ain)

Another Al Ain youngster, 17-year-old midfielder Joshua Udoh is still finding his feet in senior football. While yet to feature for Nigeria at any level, his inclusion in this prestigious tournament could serve as the catalyst for a bright future.

5. Onuche Ogbelu (Esperance)

A midfield engine for Tunisia’s Esperance, 22-year-old Onuche Ogbelu is a former Flying Eagles standout. He featured prominently at the U-20 AFCON and World Cup and now brings his talents to Group D, where Esperance will battle Chelsea, Flamengo, and LAFC.

As these five Nigerians prepare to test themselves against some of the world’s best clubs and players, fans back home will be watching closely — not just for national pride, but for a glimpse into Nigeria’s footballing future.