African football has been on a meteoric rise, with clubs across the continent showcasing exceptional talent and competitive spirit on the global stage. As we delve into 2024, the landscape of African club football continues to evolve, with powerhouses emerging and solidifying their positions. Based on the Confederation of African Football (CAF) rankings, which consider performance in continental club competitions over the last five seasons (2019-2024), we present the top 5 African football clubs that are making waves both domestically and internationally.
1. Al Ahly (Egypt) – 87 points
• Reigning CAF Champions League winners
• Most successful club in African football history
• Consistent performers in continental competitions
Al Ahly, the pride of Egyptian football, continues to reign supreme as the top-ranked African club in 2024. With an impressive 87 points in the CAF rankings, the Red Devils have maintained their dominance through stellar performances in continental competitions. Their recent triumph in the CAF Champions League further cements their status as the most successful club in African football history.
The Cairo-based giants have built their success on a foundation of tactical brilliance, world-class facilities, and a winning mentality that permeates every level of the club. Al Ahly’s ability to consistently produce and nurture local talent while attracting top players from across Africa has been key to their sustained success. Their influence extends beyond the continent, with impressive showings in global competitions like the FIFA Club World Cup.
2. Esperance (Tunisia) – 61 points
• Moved up from third to second in the rankings
• Runners-up in the most recent CAF Champions League
• Known for their passionate fan base and home ground advantage
Esperance, the Tunisian powerhouse, has made significant strides in recent years, climbing to second place in the CAF rankings with 61 points. Their impressive run to the final of the CAF Champions League has been a testament to their growing influence in African football. The Blood and Gold have consistently demonstrated their ability to compete at the highest level, showcasing a blend of tactical acumen and individual brilliance.
The club’s success can be attributed to their strong youth academy, which has produced numerous talents that have gone on to shine both domestically and internationally. Esperance’s home ground, the Stade Olympique de Radès, is renowned for its intimidating atmosphere, giving the team a significant advantage in crucial matches. Their rise in the rankings reflects the club’s commitment to excellence and their ambition to become the premier force in African football.
3. Wydad Athletic Club (Morocco) – 60 points
• Dropped from second to third in the rankings
• Recent appointment of renowned coach Rulani Mokwena
• Strong domestic record and continental pedigree
Wydad Athletic Club, despite dropping to third place in the rankings with 60 points, remains a formidable force in African football. The Casablanca-based club’s recent failure to qualify for the CAF Champions League group stage was a setback, but it has not diminished their overall standing in the continent. The appointment of highly-regarded coach Rulani Mokwena signals the club’s intent to reclaim their position at the summit of African football.
Wydad’s success is built on a strong footballing culture and a passionate fan base that creates an electric atmosphere at the Mohammed V Stadium. The club has a rich history of producing talented players and has been a regular contender in continental competitions. With their new technical setup and a renewed focus on youth development, Wydad is poised to challenge for top honors in the coming seasons.
4. Mamelodi Sundowns (South Africa) – 54 points
• Retained fourth position in the rankings
• Consistently strong performers in domestic and continental competitions
• Known for their attractive, attacking style of play
Mamelodi Sundowns, with 54 points, have firmly established themselves as South Africa’s premier club and one of Africa’s elite teams. Despite falling short in the semi-finals of the CAF Champions League, the Brazilians have maintained their fourth-place ranking, a testament to their consistency and quality. Under the ownership of mining magnate Patrice Motsepe, who is also the current CAF president, Sundowns have invested heavily in infrastructure and player development.
The Pretoria-based club is renowned for its attractive, possession-based style of football, often drawing comparisons to some of Europe’s top teams. Sundowns’ success is not limited to the domestic front; they have become regular contenders in continental competitions, with their crowning achievement being the CAF Champions League title in 2016. With a strong financial backing and a commitment to playing progressive football, Mamelodi Sundowns are well-positioned to challenge for continental supremacy in the coming years.
5. Zamalek (Egypt) – 48 points
• Maintained fifth position in the rankings
• Fierce rivals of Al Ahly in Egyptian football
• Rich history of success in domestic and continental competitions
Rounding out the top five is Zamalek, another Egyptian giant, with 48 points in the CAF rankings. The White Knights have a storied history in African football and continue to be a major force both domestically and on the continent. Their fierce rivalry with Al Ahly, known as the Cairo Derby, is one of the most intense in world football and has been a driving force behind Egyptian football’s prominence in Africa.
Zamalek’s success is built on a strong organizational structure and a knack for developing and acquiring top talent. The club has a massive fan base that extends beyond Egypt’s borders, making them one of the most supported teams in Africa. While they may be in the shadow of their cross-town rivals Al Ahly in the current rankings, Zamalek’s pedigree and resources make them constant threats in any competition they enter.
Notable Others
While the top 5 clubs have distinguished themselves, it’s important to acknowledge other significant teams making their mark in African football:
- RS Berkane (Morocco) – 42 points
- Simba (Tanzania) – 39 points
- Petro de Luanda (Angola) – 39 points
- TP Mazembe (DR Congo) – 38 points
- CR Belouizdad (Algeria) – 36 points
These clubs have shown remarkable progress and continue to challenge the established order. Their presence in the top 10 underscores the growing competitiveness and quality of African club football.
Conclusion:
The landscape of African club football is more vibrant and competitive than ever. The top 5 clubs of 2024 represent the pinnacle of the sport on the continent, each with its unique strengths and footballing philosophies. As these teams continue to invest in infrastructure, youth development, and tactical innovation, the quality of African football is set to rise even further.
The success of these clubs not only elevates the standard of the game in Africa but also increases the continent’s standing in global football. With more African players making their mark in top European leagues and African clubs performing admirably in international competitions, the future of African football looks brighter than ever.
As we look ahead, the challenge for these top clubs will be to maintain their dominance while adapting to the ever-evolving landscape of world football. The competition is fierce, and new challengers are always emerging, ensuring that African club football remains exciting and unpredictable.
For more information on African football and the latest rankings, visit the official Confederation of African Football (CAF) website.
