Africa’s four leading football clubs are bracing for their biggest test yet as they head into the FIFA Club World Cup in the United States from 14 June to 13 July.
Al Ahly, Wydad, Esperance and Mamelodi Sundowns are the continent’s first-ever quartet to feature in the global tournament, an unprecedented milestone in African club football.
Al Ahly are leading the charge with bold moves. The Egyptian powerhouse named Spaniard Jose Riveiro as head coach and brought in six fresh faces, including Zizo, Trezeguet, Hamdi Fathi, Ben Ramadan, Siha, and Beckham. Alieu Dieng also returns from loan. After four previous third-place finishes, they hope to finally lift the trophy, starting against Inter Miami.
Wydad are entering a new chapter with coach Mohamed Lamine Benhachem. With Amrabat and Hennouri joining, and Mosaddegh potentially arriving, they face a daunting group featuring Juventus and Manchester City.
Esperance, under Maher El Kanzari, count on form and experience. Their only addition is Younes Rached.
Sundowns, led by Miguel Cardoso, mix flair with structure. With key stars in form, they aim to upset giants like Dortmund and Fluminense.
