Mamelodi Sundowns' elimination from the 2026–27 CAF Champions League has raised questions about Al Ahly's chances of qualifying for the 2029 FIFA Club World Cup, as another African champion could reduce the number of places available through rankings.

Sundowns were eliminated by Angola's Wiliete following a 1–1 draw in the second leg, after a goalless first leg, creating new qualification scenarios for African clubs.

Sundowns Exit Changes the Calculations

Africa has four places at the 2029 Club World Cup.

Pyramids secured qualification by winning the 2025 CAF Champions League, while Sundowns claimed another place by winning the following edition.

With Sundowns eliminated, another club could win this season's title and secure a third direct qualification place, leaving fewer opportunities through rankings.

However, another Champions League title for Pyramids could leave an additional ranking opportunity because the Egyptian club have already qualified.

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How Can Al Ahly Qualify?

Al Ahly have two possible routes: winning the CAF Champions League in one of the remaining editions through 2028 or earning enough continental ranking points under the qualification rules.

Their situation is more difficult because they are competing in the CAF Confederation Cup this season after finishing third in the Egyptian Premier League.

They also exited last season's Champions League in the quarter-finals against Esperance, losing 4–2 on aggregate.

Meanwhile, Zamalek and Pyramids are representing Egypt in this season's Champions League, and their results could influence the qualification race.

Al Ahly's main challenge is to return to the CAF Champions League and compete for the title rather than depend on other clubs' results and complicated ranking calculations.