By Victor Kanayo
Four African clubs gunning for the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup will be $2 million richer each.
This was disclosed by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) as part of updates ahead of the tournament, which kicks off in a few weeks in the United States.
Four clubs have been selected to fly the continent’s flag.
They are Al Ahly (Egypt), Wydad Casablanca (Morocco), Espérance (Tunisia), and Mamelodi Sundowns (South Africa).
According to CAF, the funds are intended to support player acquisitions and overall preparations for the global competition.
This year’s edition will be the first to feature 32 clubs from around the world, marking a historic expansion in the tournament’s format.
Barça Back?
Meanwhile, there are conversations going on at FIFA’s headquarters in Zurich regarding the possibility of inviting Barcelona to the Club World Cup.
Reports revealed that Barcelona, also known as the Catalans, emerged as a candidate to replace Mexico’s Club León, which has been suspended from the competition.
León Suspension, Awaiting Further Decision
The suspension, according to organisers, stems from a violation of FIFA’s multi-club ownership rules, as León’s parent company, Grupo Pachuca, also owns fellow participant CF Pachuca.
While no final decision has been announced, Barcelona’s inclusion, analysts say, would provide a critical financial boost.
Missed Qualification
The Catalan club missed qualification due to inconsistent UEFA Champions League performances between 2021 and 2024.
Heavy defeats, including 2–5 and 4–6 losses to Paris Saint-Germain, eroded Barcelona’s UEFA coefficient, allowing Atlético Madrid to claim Spain’s second berth alongside Real Madrid.
