AFCON 2025
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The 2025 FIFA Club World Cup kicks-off this weekend with an expanded 32-team format as the United States of America as host.
Defending champions of the UEFA Champions League PSG, Real Madrid, Manchester City, and Bayern Munich are some of the top teams considered as favorite to win the title.
However, in every tournament, there are “Dark Horses” who can create upsets and probably go far in the competition. Among them are Al Ahly (Egypt), Botafogo (Brazil), and Inter Milan (Italy) who stand out due to their recent form, historical success, and potential to surprise.
3 Dark Horses at the FIFA Club World Cup
1. Al Ahly
Al Ahly, the 12-time CAF Champions League winners (including 2020-21, 2022-23, 2023-24), are a dark horse in the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup’s Group A (Inter Miami, Porto, Palmeiras).
The Egyptian club are the biggest and most successful club on the African continent with a rich and storied history.
With goalkeeper Mohamed El Shenawy and forward Mahmoud Trezeguet leading the charge under new coach José Riveiro, Al Alhy have a decent chance to progress from the ground stage.
Facing Inter Miami on June 14, 2025, at 05:38 PM WAT, they aim to build on past Club World Cup third-place finishes.
Al-Ahly came third in the 2020, 2021, and 2023 editions of the FIFA World Cup Cup.
Botafogo
Botafogo, 2024 Copa Libertadores champions, enter Group B (Paris Saint-Germain, Atlético Madrid, Seattle Sounders) as South America ‘s dark horse.
Coach Artur Jorge and striker Igor Jesus drive their attack, with midfielder Gregore adding stability. Their recent Série A form and knockout resilience give them an edge to surprise, especially if they exploit group weaknesses starting June 14, 2025, at 05:38 PM WAT.
Inter Milan
Inter Milan won the tournament in 2010 with a 3-0 win over former African champions TP Mazembe.
The Nerazzurri come into the tournament revitalized with Christian Chivu, following the departure of Simone Inzaghi after the Champions League final loss to PSG.
Inter Milan are in Group E’s (River Plate, Monterrey, Urawa Red Diamonds) and are favorite to win the group.
Led by Lautaro Martínez and Nicolò Barella, their tactical flexibility and set-piece threat could see them advance deep into the tournament.
