Saudi football fans get a glimpse of FIFA Club World Cup trophy

JEDDAH: Saudi football fans had the chance to view the FIFA Club World Cup trophy ahead of the competition in December when the tournament’s roadshow kicked off on Monday at the Sports Village at King Abdulaziz University.

The trophy tour is part of plans aimed at promoting an active lifestyle among Saudi Arabia’s young people, while raising awareness about the competition.

In addition to King Abdulaziz University, planned destinations include shopping malls, local and international schools, and other public venues such as Jeddah Corniche.

A large number of male and female students had the opportunity to have their picture taken with the prestigious cup which first featured in the 2005 competition in Japan.

Mohannad Al-Najjar, a medical student at King Abdulaziz University, attended the roadshow and told Arab News he was excited to see the trophy, adding that he hoped his favorite club, Al-Ittihad, would go on to win it.

“It is a great opportunity for me and my friends to catch the trophy within the premises of our campus,” he said.

Marawan Al-Omari, another football fan, said: “We’re just here to see the trophy and get in the spirit of the FIFA Club World Cup 2023.

“I have already bought my tickets for the first two matches and hope I can see the rest of the games. I am really excited about this tournament.”

Teams to have already qualified are: Auckland City, New Zealand (Oceania champions); Al-Ittihad, Saudi Arabia (hosts); Urawa Red Diamonds, Japan (Asia champions); Club Leon, Mexico (North and Central America/Caribbean champions); Al-Ahly, Egypt (African champions); and Manchester City (European champions).

The seventh and last qualifier is decided on Nov. 4 when the final of the 2023 Copa Libertadores will