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AMMAN — The 2025 FIFA Club World Cup has officially kicked off in the United States, marking a new era for the competition with the introduction of a 32-team format for the first time. Spanning from 14 June to 13 July and hosted across 11 cities, the revamped tournament adopts a World Cup-style structure: eight groups of four teams, with the top two from each group advancing to the knockout stage.
The Arab footballing world is strongly represented, with five teams competing on the global stage: Al Ahly (Egypt), Wydad AC (Morocco), Al Hilal (Saudi Arabia), Al Ain (UAE), and Esperance Sportive de Tunis (Tunisia). This expanded format provides a golden opportunity for Arab clubs to test their mettle against some of the world’s elite sides.
Al Ahly poised for knockout push
Egyptian giants Al Ahly, winners of the 2020–21 CAF Champions League, find themselves in Group A alongside Palmeiras (Brazil), FC Porto (Portugal), and Inter Miami CF (USA). With no European heavyweight in the group, Al Ahly have a legitimate shot at progressing to the next round. Their tournament began with a goalless draw against Inter Miami, a result that keeps them well in contention.
Tough tests await Esperance and Al Hilal
Esperance de Tunis face a formidable challenge in Group D, where they meet Brazil’s Flamengo, Chelsea (England), and Los Angeles FC (USA). Though the competition is fierce, the Tunisian side is determined to rise to the occasion and cause an upset.
Al Hilal, one of Asia’s most decorated clubs, are drawn into Group H with none other than European champions Real Madrid. While Madrid are favourites to top the group, Al Hilal remain in the hunt for the second qualification spot, facing off against Red Bull Salzburg (Austria) and Pachuca (Mexico).
Wydad AC and Al Ain target second spot
Group G features two Arab clubs: Wydad AC and Al Ain, alongside Juventus (Italy) and Manchester City (England). Although the European sides bring heavyweight reputations, both Juventus and City have underperformed in the last season. This opens the door for either Arab club to mount a serious push for the knockout stage.
High stakes, big rewards
Beyond pride and continental representation, the financial stakes are also massive. FIFA has announced a total prize pool of $1 billion, with the eventual champions set to receive up to $125 million. For Arab clubs, success in the tournament could bring both prestige and significant financial windfalls.
The 2025 edition of the FIFA Club World Cup is not just a football competition—it’s a statement of global growth. And for Arab teams, it’s a chance to cement their place among football’s elite.