Olorunleke to Play in Champions League as CAF Approves Al Merreikh

Super Eagles goalkeeper Ojo Olorunleke will participate in the 2024/25 Champions League following the Confederation of African Football CAF’s official approval of Sudanese clubs. Olorunleke recently signed a two year contract with Al Merreikh, leaving Enyimba, the Nigeria Premier Football League champions, after a three year tenure.

Both Al Merreikh and Al-Hilal are set to compete in the Champions League, while Al Wadi Nyala will join the Confederation Cup. This development comes after the endorsement by the Club Competitions Licensing Committee and the approval of the Sudanese Super League held in Tanzania.

This achievement is credited to the Sudanese Football Association and its Chairman, Dr Moatasim Jaafar Sir Al Khatm, also a CAF Executive Committee member. Osama Atta Al Mannan, the First Deputy Chairman of the Sudanese Football Association, confirmed that Sudanese clubs will face no difficulties in participating in this season’s CAF Champions League and Confederation Cup. He lauded Dr Moatasim Jaafar for securing the clubs’ participation through the Sudanese Super League’s approval.

Editorial

The inclusion of Ojo Olorunleke in the upcoming Champions League is a noteworthy development for both the player and African football. His move to Al Merreikh and subsequent participation in the prestigious tournament underscore the dynamic nature of football careers and the opportunities that arise through strategic moves.

We see this as a positive step for Olorunleke, who has demonstrated remarkable skill and dedication during his time with Enyimba. His transition to Al Merreikh represents a new chapter that holds the promise of further growth and exposure on an international platform.

The proactive efforts by the Sudanese Football Association, particularly under the leadership of Dr Moatasim Jaafar, highlight the importance of strong governance and strategic planning in sports administration. Their success in securing approval for Sudanese clubs to participate in CAF competitions is a testament to their commitment to elevating the status of football in Sudan.

This development also reflects a broader trend of increased collaboration and support within African football. By ensuring that clubs from various regions can compete in top tier tournaments, CAF is fostering a more inclusive and competitive environment. This, in turn, benefits the players, clubs, and fans, contributing to the overall growth and popularity of the sport across the continent.

As supporters of African football, we are excited to witness Ojo Olorunleke’s journey with Al Merreikh in the Champions League. His participation not only showcases his individual talent but also shines a spotlight on the potential of African players to excel on the global stage. We are confident that his performance will inspire many young athletes and further enhance the reputation of African football internationally.

Did You Know?

• Ojo Olorunleke has been recognized for his exceptional goalkeeping skills and has earned several accolades during his career in Nigeria.
• Al Merreikh, based in Sudan, is one of the country’s most successful football clubs, with numerous league titles to their name.
• The CAF Champions League is the premier club football competition in Africa, attracting top talent from across the continent.
• Sudanese clubs have a rich history in African football, with Al Hilal and Al Merreikh being longstanding rivals and major contributors to the sport in Sudan.
• The Sudanese Super League, recently endorsed by CAF, aims to elevate the standard of football in the country and provide a more competitive platform for local clubs.