Drogba: FIFA Club World Cup important for Africa's rise

Ivory Coast's former soccer player Didier Drogba addresses a news conference after the inauguration ceremony of a new school building constructed by the Didier Drogba Foundation at Pokou Kouamekro, Gagnoa, Ivory Coast, January 17, 2018. [REUTERS/Thierry Gouegnon]

Football legend and former Ivory Coast captain Didier Drogba has lauded the upcoming rebranded FIFA Club World Cup as a prime opportunity for African clubs and players to showcase their talent on the world stage.

With the tournament set to expand significantly, Drogba stresses its potential to elevate African football and foster global recognition for clubs from the continent.

"It's a great opportunity for players coming from a continent like Africa, for example, where you don't really see those teams on the biggest stage," Drogba stated.

This year's edition, scheduled to be held in the United States from June 14 to July 13, 2025, will feature 32 teams, including continental champions from around the world.

Historically, African clubs like TP Mazembe from the Democratic Republic of the Congo, who reached the final in 2010, have demonstrated their ability to compete with the best, even if they have yet to secure the title.

Drogba believes the expanded format, which mirrors the FIFA World Cup structure, will give African teams a better shot at success.

"If gives more chances to players who cannot perform (in) and win the World Cup with their national team to be able to become world champions with their clubs. The tournament makes things a bit more recurrent, which means there is more competition, more games and more opportunities for players to be world champions," explained the Ivorian.

The tournament's increased prominence could be life-changing, Drogba noted, highlighting the emotional significance for players from countries like Ivory Coast.

"Imagine the feeling for someone who plays in Cote d'Ivoire, or any other African country, to become a world champion in front of all the big clubs like Chelsea, Barcelona or Real Madrid," he said.

Drogba's career-marked by his legendary stint at Chelsea, where he lifted the UEFA Champions League trophy and became a club legend-underscores the importance of seizing such moments.

Throughout his career, he has been a symbol of perseverance and excellence, not only at club level but also as a leader of Les Elephants' "golden generation." He played in three FIFA World Cups and experienced heartbreak in the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) finals before witnessing Ivory Coast's triumph in 2015.

With four African representatives-Esperance, Wydad Casablanca, Al Ahly, and Mamelodi Sundowns-set to compete, the tournament promises a new chapter of opportunity for the continent's clubs.

Drogba remains optimistic about the impact this expanded competition can have in elevating African football to new heights.

This competition will be very important for the African teams because it will be an opportunity for them to show what they are capable of," he concluded.