Zaidu Sanusi and FC Porto Gear Up for FIFA Club World Cup Challenge
Super Eagles defender Zaidu Sanusi is poised for a potential showdown with Lionel Messi and Inter Miami at the FIFA Club World Cup, having secured a spot in FC Porto’s 28-man squad for the prestigious tournament. The competition, set to kick off on June 15 in the United States, marks a new chapter for the revamped Club World Cup, expanding to a 32-team format across various cities and venues. Sanusi’s inclusion comes despite a relatively quiet season for the Dragons, where he made only three league appearances and a total of eight across all competitions.
Sanusi’s football journey has taken him through various Portuguese clubs, starting with Gil Vicente before moving to Mirandela and then Santa Clara. His performances eventually earned him a move to FC Porto in August 2020, where he has since become a familiar face. With 128 appearances for Porto, Sanusi has contributed seven goals and one assist, showcasing his versatility on the field. His international career with the Super Eagles began in 2020 under Gernot Rohr, and he has since earned 22 caps for the Nigerian national team.
FC Porto’s squad for the Club World Cup features a mix of seasoned players and promising youngsters. Among them are up-and-coming talents Gabriel Brás, André Oliveira, and Ángel Alarcón. Recent signing Gabri Veiga, acquired for €15 million, will be eager to make a strong impression in his debut tournament with the club. Goalkeeper Diogo Costa and attacking midfielder Rodrigo Mora, fresh off their UEFA Nations League triumph with Portugal, also join the ranks. Interestingly, young striker Samu Aghehowa, who represented Spain in the Nations League final against Portugal, adds further depth to the Porto attack.
Midfielders Eustáquio and Deniz Gul will join the squad later due to international commitments. Notable absences include Grujic, who is still recovering from injury, Samuel Portugal, sidelined with an elbow injury, and Tiago Djaló, excluded due to disciplinary issues. This blend of youth and experience provides manager Martín Anselmi with tactical flexibility and depth as they navigate the challenges of the Club World Cup.
Porto’s campaign begins in Group A, where they face stiff competition from Brazilian giants Palmeiras, African powerhouse Al Ahly of Egypt, and MLS side Inter Miami, featuring the legendary Lionel Messi. Their opening match against Palmeiras on June 15 will set the tone for their group stage journey, followed by a clash against Inter Miami on June 19. The final group game against Al Ahly will determine their progression to the knockout stages. Each match presents a unique test, requiring Porto to adapt and showcase their tactical prowess.
The expanded format of the Club World Cup introduces a new level of complexity and excitement. With 32 teams vying for the title, the competition will be fierce. Porto’s journey, under the guidance of Martín Anselmi, will be closely watched as they aim to navigate the group stage and make a deep run in the tournament. The presence of young talents alongside established stars adds an intriguing dimension to their campaign, promising a dynamic and unpredictable performance on the global stage. The knockout stages, featuring a single-elimination format, will further intensify the pressure and excitement as teams battle for the coveted title.
