South Africa Tops African Representation at 2025 FIFA Club World Cup with 31 Players

South Africa has emerged as the most represented African nation at the upcoming 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, with 31 players registered to participate in the historic tournament set to kick off in the United States on June 15.

This highlights South Africa’s significant contribution to the expanded global competition.

This marks the highest number of players from any African country at the tournament, placing South Africa among the top 10 most represented nationalities worldwide.

In the global ranking, South Africa is listed 10th, just behind Italy and Germany, and ahead of several other European and Latin American footballing nations.

Global Top 10 – Player Representation at the Club World Cup 2025:
1. Brazil – 141 players
2. Argentina – 103
3. Spain – 54
4. Portugal – 49
5. Mexico – 41
6. United States – 40
7. France – 37
8. Germany – 36
9. Italy – 36
10. South Africa – 31

The statistics encompass players across all 32 clubs qualified for the tournament, including those currently registered with teams outside their home countries.

For South Africa, the number includes not only players from Mamelodi Sundowns, the nation’s sole representative at the tournament, but also South African players plying their trade in international clubs that have qualified.

This recognition reflects both the strength and export value of South African football. It’s a notable achievement given the tournament’s scale and the intense competition for roster spots in elite clubs from Europe, South America, and Asia.

South Africa’s position ahead of other African football powerhouses such as Morocco, Egypt, and Nigeria highlights the nation’s growing impact on club football at the highest level.

While exact figures for other African countries have not been publicly detailed, none were included in Transfermarkt’s top 10, underscoring the distinction of South African representation.

The 2025 FIFA Club World Cup is the first edition to feature 32 teams, transitioning from the previous 7-club format. It will be played across multiple U.S. cities, featuring champions from each continent alongside top-performing clubs from the UEFA Champions League and other confederations.

Mamelodi Sundowns, South Africa’s flagship club in the competition, is placed in Group F alongside Borussia Dortmund (Germany), Fluminense (Brazil), and Ulsan Hyundai (South Korea). The club will look to build on its recent dominance in the CAF Champions League and prove itself against global heavyweights.

As anticipation builds for the tournament, South Africa’s milestone presence sets a new benchmark for African football visibility on the world stage — both in quality and numbers.