The 2025 FIFA Club World Cup in the United States is in full swing—and it’s already proving to be brutal.

After just two group-stage games, one of Africa’s representatives is officially out of the tournament, and others are hanging on by a thread.

Let’s break down the latest developments, especially if you’ve been keeping tabs on the African sides or just want to catch up on the drama.

Africa’s Four Hopefuls Step Into the Ring

Africa entered this year’s expanded Club World Cup with four strong contenders:

Mamelodi Sundowns (South Africa)
Al Ahly (Egypt)
Esperance de Tunis (Tunisia)
Wydad AC (Morocco)

Each team banked a tidy $9.55 million in appearance fees just for making it to the big stage.

But with elite clubs like Manchester City, Juventus, and Chelsea in the mix, surviving the group stage was always going to be a mountain to climb.

Wydad AC Bow Out Early

Moroccan giants Wydad AC are the first African team sent packing.

They were placed in what many call the “Group of Death,” featuring Manchester City and Juventus.

Unfortunately, Wydad couldn’t catch a break—losing 2-0 to City and then being hammered 4-1 by Juventus.

Their final game is now just for pride—and possibly a cash bonus.

If they manage a win or draw against Al Ain (also already eliminated), they can boost their appearance fee.

A win earns $2 million, a draw $1 million, and a loss leaves you empty-handed.

Al Ahly Need a Miracle

Over in Group A, Al Ahly still have a chance—but it’s slim.

They must beat Portuguese side Porto in their final match on Monday, 23 June.

Anything less and they’ll be out.

Even with a win, they’ll have to hope other results go their way.

Esperance vs. Chelsea – A Tall Order

Tunisia’s Esperance de Tunis are still in the race, but they’ve got the toughest task ahead: beat Chelsea.

That clash is set for Tuesday, 24 June, and anything less than a win could see them follow Wydad out the door.

Sundowns Still Alive – But Barely

After losing 4-3 to Borussia Dortmund, Mamelodi Sundowns now face Fluminense on Wednesday, 25 June.

A win puts them through.

A draw? Well, then it depends on a huge favor from Ulsan HD, who would need to beat Dortmund by two goals.

Who Else Has Been Knocked Out?

It’s not just African teams struggling—several others are already out, including:

Auckland City (New Zealand)

Lost 10-0 to Bayern Munich and 6-0 to Benfica.

They’ll finish off against Boca Juniors.

Los Angeles FC (USA)

Fell 2-0 to Chelsea and 1-0 to Esperance.

They’ll wrap things up against Flamengo.

Urawa Red Diamonds (Japan)

Defeated 3-1 by River Plate and 2-1 by Inter Milan.

One last game remains against Monterrey.

Ulsan HD (South Korea)

Lost 1-0 to Sundowns and 4-2 to Fluminense.

A final match against Dortmund awaits.

Pachuca (Mexico)

Out after losing 2-1 to Salzburg and 3-1 to Real Madrid.

Their last dance will be against Al-Hilal.

Still Something to Play For

Despite being eliminated, most teams can still earn extra cash in their final games—each win or draw adds to their tournament earnings.

In some cases, it’s the only consolation left.

Have You Been Watching?

With upsets, thrashings, and nail-biting drama, the 2025 Club World Cup has delivered.

But for many fans—especially across Africa—the pressure is mounting, and hopes are hanging by a thread.

What’s been your highlight so far?