Esperance of Tunisia and Mamelodi Sundowns of South Africa have clinched their spots at the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup after the semi-final matches of the TotalEnergies CAF Champions League.
With Esperance securing a 2-0 aggregate victory over Sundowns, they gear up for a thrilling two-legged final against the dominant Egyptian powerhouse, Al Ahly. Esperance’s advancement to the CAF Champions League final guarantees them at least a place at the upcoming 32-team FIFA Club World Cup in the United States next June and July through the ranking pathway. Nonetheless, their quest to become African champions by triumphing over Al Ahly remains alive with matches scheduled for May 18th and 25th.
Despite falling short in reaching the CAF Champions League final, Sundowns’ commendable performances over the past four years ensure their participation in the inaugural edition of the revamped global club event. The competition, designed to determine a true world champion, will feature four representatives from CAF, with Al Ahly and Wydad Casablanca having already secured their spots as Champions League winners in 2021, 2023, and 2022 respectively.
Even if Esperance doesn’t prevail against Al Ahly in the final, their impressive track record secures one of the remaining CAF berths. Sundowns also make it to the global stage through the ranking pathway, reflecting their status as one of the continent’s most successful teams in recent seasons. With four African sides set to compete, including Wydad, Al Ahly, Mamelodi Sundowns, and ES Tunis, the FIFA Club World Cup promises an exciting showcase of football talent across the continent.
