sportskeeda
Marcel Koller, the head coach of Al Ahly, has shared his thoughts on the recent draw for the FIFA Club World Cup, set to take place in 2025 in the United States.
The newly designed Club World Cup will include 32 teams and is scheduled to be held every four years starting in 2025. Four African clubs—Al Ahly, Mamelodi Sundowns, Wydad Athletic Club, and Espérance Sportive de Tunis—will represent the continent in this prestigious event.
All African participants have now learned who their opponents will be, as the tournament’s draw occurred last week. Koller, the Swiss coach, recognizes the difficulties that lie ahead for all African teams but is eager about the opportunity for African clubs to compete against European teams, believing it will enhance the quality of African football.
“It won’t be straightforward, but we have six months to prepare,” Koller remarked after their Champions League match against Orlando Pirates on Saturday.
“While some may view our group as manageable, that’s far from true. We are up against a team from Portugal [FC Porto] and another from Brazil [Palmeiras].
“We will also compete against Inter Miami, in front of a large home crowd. This will certainly be a significant challenge, not only for us but for all African teams.
“Ultimately, it is exhilarating to take on the world’s elite teams. The matches will be captivating as African squads face off against opponents from Europe and South/North America.”
The tournament is planned to take place from June 15 to July 13 in the USA, with Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami acting as the host team. Al Ahly will be in Group A, alongside Brazil’s SE Palmeiras, Portugal’s FC Porto, and the host team Inter Miami.
In contrast, ES Tunis will be placed in Group D with Brazil’s CR Flamengo, England’s Chelsea, and Mexico’s Club León. Mamelodi Sundowns find themselves in Group F, where they will meet Germany’s Borussia Dortmund, Brazil’s Fluminense, and South Korea’s Ulsan HD. Rulani Mokwena’s Wydad will compete in Group G against Premier League champions Manchester City, Italy’s Juventus, and UAE’s Al Ain.
