The expanded Club World Cup has four African representatives, and, unlike the previous version, they get to play against opposition from Europe and South America from the group stages.

Mikel, the man who captained the Super Eagles to an Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) title in 2013, believes that this tournament brings new hope for African football and its clubs.

"This tournament is something special, and it's really special for African clubs to experience this Club World Cup, and to elevate their game to the highest level," said the former Chelsea legend.

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Africa’s most successful football club, Al Ahly, were held to a goalless draw by Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami in the opening game, and Elias Mokwana’s Esperance lost to Brazil’s Flamengo 2-0 earlier this morning.

With Mamelodi Sundowns and Wydad Casablanca still to play, Mikel sounds confident about African teams in this tournament.

"I'm very happy that FIFA has organised this event, so that we as Africa can see where we can get to or the standards we should be aiming towards.

"Africans always find a way to compete, and our clubs will relish the challenge of playing against some of the best on Earth," highlighted Mikel.

Mikel was part of the Chelsea team that lost to Brazil’s Corinthians 2-1 in the final of the 2012 FIFA Club World Cup in Japan.

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