Five Nigerian Players Ready for 2025 FIFA Club World Cup in the USA

The 2025 FIFA Club World Cup today kicked off in the United States on Sunday, with five Nigerian players set to feature for their clubs on the world stage.

This year’s tournament is historic, as it has expanded from seven to 32 teams. The new format means more teams from different continents, including at least three clubs from Africa.

Here are the five Nigerian players who will be in action at the Club World Cup:

Onuche Ogbelu (Espérance de Tunis)
Onuche Ogbelu will represent Tunisian side Espérance de Tunis. Ogbelu started his football career at Fosla Academy, where he captained the team to win the 2021 Principal’s Cup.

He later joined Nasarawa United in 2022 before signing a three-year contract with Espérance in September 2023. The midfielder is expected to play an important role for the North African club during the tournament.

Zaidu Sanusi (FC Porto)
Zaidu Sanusi, a talented left-back, will feature for Portuguese champions FC Porto. Sanusi is known for his speed and attacking runs.

He made headlines when he scored his first UEFA Champions League goal in a 2–1 victory against Marseille. Since joining Porto, he has helped the club win several trophies, including the Primeira Liga, the Portuguese Cup, and the Super Cup. His experience will be key as Porto aim for success at the World Cup.

Al Ain FC (United Arab Emirates)
Al Ain FC will have three Nigerian players in their squad:

• Rilwanu Haliru Sarki – A skillful left winger known for his creativity.

• Joshua Udoh – A young striker with a good eye for goal.

• Hassan Sani Mohammed – A promising and agile goalkeeper.

These players will strengthen Al Ain’s squad as they hope for a strong performance in this expanded tournament.