A former defender believes the Johannesburg club can leverage continental competition to reach the global tournament scheduled for 2029 while generating significant revenue and international recognition.
Morgan Gould noted that African representatives at the 2025 edition in the United States will each receive at least $10 million in participation payments plus worldwide visibility. He argued that consistent performance in CAF Champions League matches over multiple seasons builds ranking points necessary for Club World Cup qualification. The club must reach semifinals and finals in premier African tournaments to accumulate sufficient standing, Gould explained. He described their recent advance to the CAF Confederation Cup group rounds as meaningful progress after years of continental struggles following their 2021 Champions League final appearance.
The Soweto outfit ranks among Africa's lowest-positioned teams and faces substantial challenges breaking into the top four clubs eligible for 2029 representation. Gould acknowledged the difficulty ahead but maintained optimism about their prospects. He emphasized that participation in high-level African competitions provides valuable experience beyond football while helping the organization expand its commercial reach through increased merchandise sales and broader fan engagement across the continent.
Morgan Gould noted that African representatives at the 2025 edition in the United States will each receive at least $10 million in participation payments plus worldwide visibility. He argued that consistent performance in CAF Champions League matches over multiple seasons builds ranking points necessary for Club World Cup qualification. The club must reach semifinals and finals in premier African tournaments to accumulate sufficient standing, Gould explained. He described their recent advance to the CAF Confederation Cup group rounds as meaningful progress after years of continental struggles following their 2021 Champions League final appearance.
The Soweto outfit ranks among Africa's lowest-positioned teams and faces substantial challenges breaking into the top four clubs eligible for 2029 representation. Gould acknowledged the difficulty ahead but maintained optimism about their prospects. He emphasized that participation in high-level African competitions provides valuable experience beyond football while helping the organization expand its commercial reach through increased merchandise sales and broader fan engagement across the continent.
