Major African clubs are gearing up to deliver exceptional performances at the Club World Cup, hosted by the United States from June 14 to July 13.
Four African clubs are participating for the first time in the tournament’s history: Al Ahly of Egypt, Wydad Casablanca of Morocco, Espérance Sportive de Tunis of Tunisia, and Mamelodi Sundowns of South Africa.
Africa has yet to win a world title at the club or national team level. Its most notable achievements include Morocco’s fourth-place finish at the 2022 World Cup, and both TP Mazembe of the Democratic Republic of Congo and Raja Casablanca of Morocco qualifying for the Club World Cup final.
Here’s a look at African clubs’ hopes for the tournament:
Al-Ahly: Ambition supported by strong deals
Al-Ahly has strengthened its ranks with major signings in preparation for the World Cup, after appointing Spaniard José Ribeiro as coach to replace Swiss Marcel Koller, along with extensive changes to the technical staff.
The team includes six new players, most notably Ahmed Mostafa “Zizo”, Mahmoud Hassan “Trezeguet”, and Hamdi Fathy, in addition to Tunisian Mohamed Ali Ben Romdhane, goalkeeper Mohamed Siha, and Ahmed Ramadan “Beckham”, with the return of Malian Aliou Dieng from loan.
Al-Ahly, who have finished third in the tournament four times, are aiming to achieve a historic achievement, starting with a match against American club Inter Miami, led by Lionel Messi.
Wydad… A new era with Benhachem
Wydad has begun preparations by appointing Mohamed El Amine Benhachem as coach, replacing South African Rulani Mokwena. The squad will be strengthened by veteran Nordin Amrabat and Hamza Hanouri, amid reports that Salah Mosaddek will be loaned from Zamalek.
Wydad faces a tough group including Juventus, Manchester City, and Al Ain, but they are aiming to deliver a distinguished performance that reflects their rich history.
Esperance… Kenzari’s bet
Under Maher Kanzari’s leadership, Esperance regained its footing, achieving a league and cup double.
Despite only signing Younes Rached from Espérance Sportive de Zarzis, the team is counting on Kanzari’s experience as they face a tough group including Chelsea, Flamengo, and Los Angeles FC.
Sundowns… Cardozo’s plan
Sundowns rely on the style of their Portuguese coach, Miguel Cardozo, who emphasizes tight defense, despite the team’s reputation for its attacking style, similar to the Brazilian style.
The team reached the CAF Champions League final last season, but lost to Pyramids.
Sundowns are counting on players such as Lucas Ribeiro, Ikram Reiners, Matheus, Peter Shalule, and goalkeeper Ronwen Williams in a balanced group that includes Borussia Dortmund, South Korea’s Ulsan Hyundai, and Fluminense.
Source: Federico Albrizio
