Introduction

FIFA's expanded Club World Cup offers fresh opportunities to the quartet of African sides heading to the United States for the inaugural 32-team tournament. Egypt's record 12-time continental champions Al Ahly, South Africa's Mamelodi Sundowns, Wydad Casablanca of Morocco, and Tunisia's Esperance are the teams looking to outperform European superclubs and other contenders from across the globe.

Historical Context

No African side has won the Club World Cup, with only two reaching the final during 20 previous editions. However, the new format now pays just to take part - the total prize pot stands at a staggering $1 billion, with $475 million based on performance, offering a huge payday for successful teams.

Team Preparations and Expectations

Esperance coach Maher Kanzari has called on his squad to "rise to the occasion" when they face Flamengo, Chelsea, and Los Angeles FC in Group D. Al Ahly will face Lionel Messi's Inter Miami in the opening match, while Wydad Casablanca opens up their Group G campaign against Manchester City.

Financial Disparities

All four African sides receive a participation fee of $9.55 million, the same as the representatives from Asia and the North and Central American and Caribbean region. However, this figure pales in comparison to the $15.21 million for South America's six representatives and the $12.81 million to $38.19 million for the 12 European sides.

Long-term Implications

The long-term question is whether the huge sums on offer could impact club competition back on the continent. FIFA, however, says that all revenues from the Club World Cup will be distributed to club football across the globe, with a target of $250 million for its solidarity investment programme.

Spotlight on Africa

Some hope that African teams playing in the Club World Cup could draw attention back to the continent's own club competitions. The African Football League was launched in 2023 but has not returned since its inaugural eight-team competition won by Sundowns.

Burnout Worries

The timing of the Club World Cup has already impacted the game on the continent, with the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations forced to move away from a proposed June-July slot and rescheduled to begin in December.

Conclusion

While the chances of an African side returning with the trophy may be slim, FIFA expects the Club World Cup to usher in a new era for the global game. Whether the riches on offer in the USA drip down across the continent remains to be seen.