Samuel Eto’o Backs African Clubs Ahead of Historic FIFA Club World Cup in the USA
As excitement builds for the FIFA Club World Cup 2025, football legend Samuel Eto’o has expressed strong optimism about Africa’s chances in the newly expanded tournament. Set to take place across the United States from June 15 to July 13, the global competition will feature 32 of the world’s top clubs, including four representatives from Africa.
The African clubs heading to the U.S. are Al Ahly (Egypt), Esperance Sportive de Tunis (Tunisia), Mamelodi Sundowns (South Africa), and Wydad Athletic Club (Morocco). They’ll compete against giants from Europe, South America, Asia, and North America in what is being hailed as the most ambitious Club World Cup to date.
Eto’o, now serving as President of the Cameroonian Football Federation (FECAFOOT) and a member of the CAF Executive Committee, is confident that Africa’s finest clubs will rise to the occasion.
“I know the teams representing my continent will do their best,” Eto’o told DSports. “They have the talent, experience, and hunger to go far. I’m hopeful they will make Africa proud.”
Eto’o, a two-time UEFA Champions League winner with Barcelona and Inter Milan, knows what it takes to succeed at the highest level. His belief in African teams is rooted in both their recent form and their increasing presence on the global stage.
Challenging Group Assignments
Each African team faces stiff competition in the group stage:
- Al Ahly (Group A): Inter Miami (USA), Palmeiras (Brazil), and FC Porto (Portugal)
- Esperance (Group D): Flamengo (Brazil), Chelsea (England), and either LAFC or Club América
- Mamelodi Sundowns (Group F): Borussia Dortmund (Germany), Fluminense (Brazil), and Ulsan Hyundai (South Korea)
- Wydad (Group G): Al Ain (UAE), Juventus (Italy), and Manchester City (England)
Despite the tough draws, Eto’o remains hopeful.
“The level is more balanced now—football has become unpredictable. Our teams can surprise anyone. They just need belief and focus,” he noted.
Looking Back to 2010 – A Moment of Pride
Eto’o fondly recalled the 2010 FIFA Club World Cup final, where TP Mazembe made history by becoming the first African team to reach the final, eventually losing to Inter Milan, a team Eto’o starred for at the time.
“It was historic to see an African club in the final. Of course, I was on the other side playing for Inter Milan, so it was bittersweet,” he said with a smile.
A Billion-Dollar Tournament
Adding to the stakes, FIFA recently confirmed that each participating team will receive a minimum of USD 9.55 million, with a total prize pool of USD 1 billion. This financial boost marks a significant milestone for club football, especially for teams from developing football markets.
Opening Clash in Miami
Al Ahly will kick off the tournament in a blockbuster opening match against Inter Miami, led by Lionel Messi, on June 14, 2025, at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami.
Eto’o’s Message to Players: “Enjoy the Moment”
As a veteran of global tournaments, Eto’o had a message for all the players:
“These moments are special. To those playing, enjoy it—this opportunity might not come again. Represent your club and your continent with pride.”
Now retired from playing, Eto’o continues to champion African football from the administrative frontlines, advocating for growth, investment, and international recognition.
As the world watches, Africa’s representatives prepare not just to compete, but to make history.
