Nine Belgians to compete at revamped FIFA Club World Cup
This weekend, the first edition of the FIFA Club World Cup in its new format with 32 participants will kick off in the United States. Nine Belgians are competing in the US, among them Bayern Munich coach Vincent Kompany and Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois.
The 32 participating clubs – twelve European, six South American, five North American, four African, four Asian and one Oceanic – are divided into eight groups of four. The top two will qualify for the round of 16.
In the previous format, sixteen of the last seventeen editions were won by the European Champions League winner. Brazilian club Corinthians was the exception in 2012. Paris Saint-Germain, Real Madrid and defending champions Manchester City are once again the top favourites, closely followed by Vincent Kompany's Bayern Munich.
The Bayern coach is one of nine Belgians at the World Cup. At Real Madrid, record Club World Cup winners with five titles, goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois is between the posts. Conference League winner Chelsea also has a Belgian goalkeeper in Mike Penders and a second Belgian in midfielder Romeo Lavia.
Manchester City is counting on Jeremy Doku. Kevin De Bruyne, who signed for Napoli on Thursday, is no longer with the club. Axel Witsel's contract is also expiring, but he is still travelling to the United States with Atletico Madrid. Juventus has room in its squad for Samuel Mbangula. RB Salzburg is bringing Yorbe Vertessen with them, and Borussia Dortmund is the eighth club with a Belgian connection thanks to Julien Duranville.
Inter Miami will face Egyptian side Al Ahly in the opening match in their home city, at the stadium of NFL club Miami Dolphins. The final will be played on 13 July at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey.
Bayern Munich coach Vincent Kompany © BELGA PHOTO IMAGO
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