As the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup electrifies fans across the U.S., former Super Eagles captain Sunday Oliseh has urged Nigerian clubs to draw inspiration from the competition.
With teams like Real Madrid, Al Ahly, and Inter Miami showing world-class organization and tactical brilliance, Oliseh believes it’s time for Nigerian clubs to get serious about building for success.
“This Club World Cup is a mirror. It’s showing African clubs—and especially Nigerian clubs—what is possible when you plan, invest, and build properly,” Oliseh said. “Clubs need to ask themselves the hard questions: why aren’t we qualifying for these competitions? What are we missing structurally and professionally?”
The former Super Eagles coach pointed out that beyond glory, these tournaments offer immense financial opportunities. Just participating at this level earns clubs global exposure, lucrative sponsorships, and access to better infrastructure through FIFA’s funding models.
Highlighting Inter Miami’s stunning 2-1 win over Porto and Botafogo’s shock victory over PSG, Oliseh noted that ambition, discipline, and technical preparation can bridge the gap—even against Europe’s elite. “
It’s not just about talent anymore—it’s about systems, support staff, and a winning mentality,” he added.
Oliseh emphasized that clubs must aim to dominate domestic competitions first, qualify for the CAF Champions League, and then dream bigger.
“It’s a step-by-step process,” he said. “The Club World Cup isn’t a fantasy for African teams—Al Ahly and Sundowns are already there.”
With FIFA expanding the format and giving more African clubs a pathway, Oliseh believes the time is now. “If we want to be seen as global contenders, our clubs must evolve. The Club World Cup isn’t for dreamers—it’s for doers.
