Big stage, millions of dollars earned, bold dreams & brutal lessons: What the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup told us about the true state of African club football

Wydad Casablanca, known for their raucous support and technical midfielders, entered the tournament with quiet confidence. But being drawn in a group with Manchester City, Juventus and Al Ain, was football’s version of being thrown into a lion’s den.

They were outclassed by City and Juventus, and tried to make a statement against Al Ain in their final group stage match, but it wasn’t enough to walk away with a victory.

There was undeniable talent on display, with South Africa’s Thembinkosi Lorch rising to the occasion. But Wydad’s high-pressing style often left them vulnerable at the back, a risky gamble against Europe’s finest.

If anything, their experience reinforced a truth that now echoes across African football: competing is no longer enough. Winning matters. And to do that, a more disciplined, balanced approach must emerge.

Al Ahly arrived at the Club World Cup with pedigree. As the most decorated team on the continent, there was a quiet expectation that they could rattle the so-called big boys—and they nearly did. In their group, Al Ahly were matched up against Inter Miami and Porto. A goalless draw against Lionel Messi’s Miami was a solid if unspectacular start. But it was the thrilling 4-4 draw against Porto that told the real story.

In that match, Wessam Abou Ali announced himself to the world, scoring a stunning hat-trick. The match showcased Al Ahly’s resilience, flair, and attacking intent. Unfortunately, it also revealed defensive frailties that cost them a spot in the knockout rounds, eliminating them with two points from three matches played.

Still, the prize money and global exposure make it a campaign that offered more than just disappointment. The Red Devils proved they can dance with Europe’s mid-tier elite. But to truly advance, they must refine their backline and develop tactical consistency across 90 minutes, not just in bursts.

Esperance went into the Club World Cup flying the Tunisian flag and carrying hopes of a region that’s long believed it belongs on the global stage. But matched in a group with Flamengo, Chelsea and Los Angeles FC, the challenge quickly became Everest-like.

Losses to Flamengo and Chelsea were perhaps expected, but it was the manner that hurt most. Esperance struggled to create chances and were often forced into deep defensive blocks that invited pressure. Against Chelsea in particular, the gulf in tempo, transition and tactical flexibility was stark.

Yet, it wasn’t a campaign without value, winning their match against LAFC. Coach Maher Kanzari was able to give his players a taste of elite football. But going forward, Esperance must find ways to blend their domestic dominance with modern footballing approaches if they’re to go beyond the group stages in future global tournaments.

If any team arrived in the United States with a point to prove, it was Mamelodi Sundowns. The Brazilians are building a reputation as Africa’s most tactically evolved side. They delivered on that promise when they defeated Ulsan 1-0, marking the first win by an African side on U.S. soil at the Club World Cup.

Iqraam Rayners’ winning goal sealed a memorable moment, and the additional $2 million bonus for the victory was the cherry on top. Yet, like their North African counterparts, consistency was elusive. Defeat to Borussia Dortmund and a final-day draw meant Sundowns also exited at the group stage.

What stood out in Sundowns’ campaign was their structure and bravery. Even in defeat, they played progressive football and showed belief. But the gap in squad depth and match sharpness compared to European and South American sides proved telling. Still, their campaign felt like a blueprint. With more investment and tougher domestic competition, Sundowns could be Africa’s best long-term bet to reach a Club World Cup semi-final in the near future.

While no African club reached the knockout stage, several individuals made the most of their moment on the global stage, proving that even in exit, talent can rise.

Wessam Abou Ali was Africa’s standout performer. The Egyptian striker’s hat-trick against Porto surely turned heads across Europe. His clinical finishing and fearless approach signalled a player ready to make the leap.

From Sundowns, Iqraam Rayners stood out with his sharp movement and relentless pressing. His goal may have been his headline moment, but it was his consistency and work rate that could see him attract interest, while his teammate Lucas Ribeiro was also a standout and showcased his incredible football talent.

Thembinkosi Lorch, a player often known for his flair, showed maturity in big moments for Wydad, combining creative playmaking with smart decision-making in the final third. 

Elias Mokwana, too, emerged as a lively presence off the bench. The Esperance winger brought directness and unpredictability - traits that, with refinement, could see him become a target for European clubs looking for raw, explosive talent.

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