The African continent has some great soccer teams with a rich history and a strong record of success in international competitions.
We’ve seen these clubs produce international players currently in the popular English Premier League.
Let’s take a closer look at the best African soccer teams according to the current ranking:
African Soccer Teams 2024 Ranking:
1. Al Ahly (Egypt)
Al Ahly is the most successful soccer club in Africa, having won the CAF Champions League (the top club competition in Africa) a record ten times, most recently in 2020. They have also won the Egyptian Premier League a record 42 times.
2. Wydad Athletic Club (Morocco)
Wydad Athletic Club has won the CAF Champions League twice, most recently in 2017, and they have also won the Botola (the top league in Morocco) 20 times.
3. Esperance de Tunis (Tunisia)
Esperance de Tunis has won the CAF Champions League four times, most recently in 2018, and they have also won the Tunisian Ligue Professionnelle 1 30 times.
4. Mamelodi Sundowns (South Africa)
Mamelodi Sundowns has won the CAF Champions League once, in 2016, and they have also won and dominated the South African Premier Division in the past 6 seasons. They also seem to be one of the strongest teams in the 2023 CAF competitions.
5. Simba (Tanzania)
With 39 CAF points, Simba’s roar is heard loud and clear across Tanzania and beyond. Their base in Dar es Salaam is a fortress where they’ve nurtured a legacy of triumph and an ever-growing fanbase.
6. Petro de Luanda (Angola)
Also with 39 CAF points, this Luanda-based club has risen to prominence with a blend of Angolan passion and a strategic approach to the game, making them one of Angola’s most decorated clubs.
7. CR Belouizdad (Algeria)
From the streets of Belouizdad to accumulating 37 CAF points, this club’s journey is one of resilience and glory, marked by a rich history and a dedicated following in Algerian football.
8. Raja Casablanca (Morocco)
Raja Casablanca has won the CAF Champions League three times, most recently in 1999, and they have also won the CAF Cup (a now defunct competition for clubs in Africa) once, in 2003.
9. TP Mazembe (Democratic Republic of Congo)
TP Mazembe has won the CAF Champions League five times, most recently in 2015, and they have also won the Linafoot (the top league in the DRC) 17 times.
10. Zamalek (Egypt)
Zamalek has won the CAF Champions League five times, most recently in 2020, and they have also won the CAF Cup Winners’ Cup (another now defunct competition for clubs in Africa) four times.
Looking Ahead
It’s worth noting that all of these teams have also won multiple domestic league titles and other domestic cups in their respective countries.
As we look to the future, the African club football scene remains vibrant and competitive. The journey to the top is difficult, but the rewards are immeasurable.
The clubs that have graced this list have set the benchmark for success, and their legacy will undoubtedly influence generations to come. In the end, it’s the love for the game that unites us all.
May the spirit of football continue to grow in Africa, and may its clubs continue to reach the stars, dominate this continent and win the hearts of fans around the world.