Five Nigerians set to feature in FIFA Club World Cup: Super Eagles defender leads US invasion

 

Five Nigerian players, led by Super Eagles defender Zaidu Sanusi, are set to showcase their talents at the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, which kicks off this Saturday in the United States.

Sanusi, who plays for Portuguese giants FC Porto, headlines the Nigerian contingent. He will be joined by four fellow compatriots representing top clubs from across the globe, each aiming to make a mark on football’s biggest club stage.

Their participation not only highlights Nigeria’s growing influence in world football but also offers a chance for fans back home to witness their stars compete against the very best.

1. Zaidu Sanusi (FC Porto, Left Back, born 1997)

Super Eagles defender Zaidu Sanusi will represent FC Porto at the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup in the United States. A consistent performer in Portugal’s top flight, Sanusi brings vital experience and defensive strength to the Nigerian contingent.

Known for his pace, positioning, and work rate, Sanusi has been a dependable figure for both club and country. His participation in this prestigious tournament further cements his status as one of Nigeria’s top international exports.

see also: Three Ghanaian talents who could light up the Club World Cup

2. Onuche Ogbelu (Esperance ST, Central Midfielder, born 2003)

Young midfielder Onuche Ogbelu will line up for Esperance Sportive de Tunis, carrying the momentum of a breakout year into the Club World Cup.

A product of Fosla Academy in Abuja, Ogbelu impressed for Nigeria at the 2023 U20 AFCON, playing in all but one match. Though he didn’t feature at the U20 World Cup, he recently made headlines with a brilliant long-range goal that won the Tunisian Cup for Esperance. His inclusion highlights the growing impact of Nigeria’s youth talents on the global stage.

3. Rilwanu Haliru Sarki (Al Ain, Left Winger, born 2004)

Rilwanu Haliru Sarki will feature for Al Ain FC at the tournament, continuing his rise after stellar performances for Nigeria’s U20 team.

The talented winger shone at the 2023 U20 AFCON and U20 World Cup, scoring a crucial goal and delivering an assist. His standout moment came when he netted a late goal to eliminate hosts Argentina, helping Nigeria reach the quarterfinals. Sarki is seen as one of the brightest attacking prospects among Nigeria’s emerging stars.

4. Joshua Udoh (Al Ain, Forward, born 2008)

At just 16, Joshua Udoh is one of the youngest players at the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup. The promising Al Ain forward is part of a new generation of Nigerian talent making their way onto the global stage.

While still early in his career, Udoh’s inclusion in Al Ain’s senior squad for such a major tournament shows the level of trust and potential seen in him by the club. He’s definitely one to watch for the future.

5. Hassan Sani Mohammed (Al Ain)

Also representing Al Ain is Hassan Sani Mohammed, who adds to Nigeria’s impressive presence at this year’s Club World Cup.

Though less in the spotlight compared to some of his teammates, Mohammed’s inclusion in the squad reflects Nigeria’s growing influence in club football beyond Europe. His presence strengthens the narrative of Nigerian talent spreading across top leagues worldwide.