At a Glance
- Top African clubs drive growth through talent development, strong revenues, and massive fan support.
- Leading teams like Al Ahly and Sundowns dominate leagues and continental competitions consistently.
- Club success boosts local economies, strengthens communities, and elevates African football globally.
Football remains one of Africa’s strongest cultural forces, uniting millions across borders and generations.
From Cairo to Casablanca and Pretoria to Dar es Salaam, the continent’s biggest football clubs have grown into economic engines, talent factories, and global brands with massive fan bases.
As African clubs expand their influence, they are shaping communities, attracting investment, and competing at higher levels across regional and international tournaments.
Supporting and developing these institutions is crucial for the advancement of African football, fostering economic growth, and uniting communities across the continent.
Shore Africa delves into the 15 biggest football clubs in Africa, spotlighting their achievements, financial prowess, and cultural significance.
1. Al Ahly SC (Egypt)
Al Ahly SC, often hailed as the “Club of the Century” by CAF, epitomizes football excellence in Africa. Founded in 1907 and based in Cairo, this iconic Egyptian club, owned by Abdul Rahman Eisa Al-Manaai, boasts an unmFootball remains one of Africa’s strongest cultural forces, uniting millions across borders and generations. From Cairo to Casablanca and Pretoria to Dar es Salaam, the continent’s biggest football clubs have grown into economic engines, talent factories, and global brands with massive fan bases. As African clubs expand their influence, they are shaping communities, attracting investment, and competing at higher levels across regional and international tournaments.atched legacy. Domestically, Al Ahly has clinched 44 Egyptian Premier League titles, 39 Egyptian Cups, and 15 Egyptian Super Cups, solidifying its dominance in national football.
On the continental stage, Al Ahly shines as Africa’s most successful club, with a staggering 12 CAF Champions League titles, four African Cup Winners’ Cups, eight CAF Super Cups, and one Confederation Cup victory, cementing its reputation as a global football powerhouse.
Revenue: Al Ahly’s market value stood at €32.30 million ($33.18 million), driven by lucrative sponsorship deals, ticket sales, and merchandising. Their strategic partnerships with top brands amplify their market presence.
Fan base: With over 50 million passionate supporters, Al Ahly enjoys one of the largest fan bases in the world. Their influence extends well beyond Egypt, with supporters scattered across Africa; its current followers on Instagram are 11.7 million.
Facilities: Al Ahly’s state-of-the-art facilities, including the Al Ahly WE Al Salam Stadium, underscore their commitment to maintaining a competitive edge.
Achievements: In addition to their domestic and continental success, Al Ahly has consistently represented Africa on the global stage, earning bronze medals in the FIFA Club World Cup.
2. Mamelodi Sundowns FC (South Africa)
Mamelodi Sundowns, established in 1970 and based in Pretoria, stands as a symbol of excellence in South African football. Known for their iconic yellow kit, they’ve earned the nickname “The Brazilians” for their vibrant, dynamic, and attacking style of play, reminiscent of Brazil’s footballing flair.
Revenue: With an estimated market value of €33.55 million($34.46 million) and generating $20 million in 2020, Sundowns benefit from substantial backing by billionaire owner Patrice Motsepe, who has invested heavily in the club’s growth.
Fan base: Their fan base of over 10 million is one of the most vibrant in Africa, with supporters consistently filling stadiums for matches.
Facilities: Sundowns’ training facilities are among the best in Africa, showcasing their commitment to player development and performance.
Achievements: With 10 South African league titles and a 2016 African Champions League victory, Sundowns have established themselves as a dominant force both domestically and continentally.
3. Zamalek SC (Egypt)
Cairo’s other football giant, Zamalek SC, has long been a fierce rival to Al Ahly. The club’s storied history is filled with moments of brilliance and a legacy of success.
Revenue: Zamalek’s $15 million revenue in 2020 reflects its status as a commercial and sporting juggernaut in African football.
Fan Base: With 20 million loyal supporters, Zamalek’s fan base is among the most passionate and vocal in Africa, ensuring the club remains at the forefront of Egyptian football.
Facilities: The club’s facilities, including the Cairo International Stadium, play a key role in their consistent performance.
Achievements: Zamalek’s trophy cabinet includes 14 Egyptian league titles and five African Champions League crowns, cementing their reputation as one of the continent’s finest.
4. Kaizer Chiefs FC (South Africa)
Founded in 1970, Kaizer Chiefs is one of the most iconic football clubs in Africa, with a brand that resonates far beyond South Africa.
Revenue: With $12 million in revenue in 2020, the Chiefs are a commercial success, leveraging their brand to secure lucrative sponsorships and merchandise sales.
Fan Base: Boasting 15 million fans, Kaizer Chiefs have one of the largest followings in South Africa and a significant presence across the continent.
Facilities: The club’s commitment to excellence is evident in its world-class facilities, which support both player development and fan engagement.
Achievements: Their impressive record of 12 South African league titles and an African Cup Winners’ Cup triumph showcase their enduring success.
5. Wydad Casablanca (Morocco)
Revenue: $15 million
Fans: over 8 million
Success: 22 Moroccan league titles, 3 African Champions League titles
Wydad Casablanca’s storied history and success have earned it a revered status in Moroccan and African football. Their impressive tally of 22 league titles and three CAF Champions League victories is a testament to their consistency and ambition. Wydad’s 8 million fans are known for their unwavering support, creating an electrifying atmosphere at their games. The club’s financial health, marked by $15 million in revenue, is bolstered by sponsorship deals and a thriving merchandise business.
6. Espérance de Tunis (Tunisia)
Revenue: $10 million
Fans: over 5 million
Success: 30 Tunisian league titles, 2 African Champions League titles
Espérance de Tunis, Tunisia’s most successful club, boasts a rich heritage with 30 domestic league titles and two CAF Champions League triumphs. The club’s ability to consistently perform at the highest level has endeared them to a fan base exceeding five million. With $10 million in revenue, Espérance has maintained its position as a financial and footballing giant in North Africa, leveraging its success to attract top talent and secure major sponsorships.
7. TP Mazembe (DR Congo)
Revenue: $8 million
Fans: over 5 million
Success: 17 Congolese league titles, 5 African Champions League titles
TP Mazembe’s dominance in Congolese and African football is unmatched. With 17 league titles and five CAF Champions League trophies, the club has cemented its reputation as one of Africa’s elite. Known for its state-of-the-art stadium and academy, TP Mazembe’s $8 million revenue reflects its commitment to growth and excellence. Their success on the continental stage has also made them a beloved club across sub-Saharan Africa.
8. Raja Casablanca (Morocco)
Revenue: $7 million
Fans: over 5 million
Success: 11 Moroccan league titles, 3 African Champions League titles
Raja Casablanca’s rich history includes 11 league titles and three CAF Champions League crowns. Their 5 million-strong fan base is known for creating vibrant matchday atmospheres. With $7 million in revenue, Raja has built a strong brand, attracting sponsors and establishing itself as a major player in African football.
9. Orlando Pirates FC (South Africa)
Revenue: $6 million
Fans: over 10 million
Success: 9 South African league titles, 1 African Cup Winners’ Cup title
Orlando Pirates, founded in 1937 and owned by Irvin Khoza is one of South Africa’s oldest and most successful clubs and boasts a passionate fan base of over 10 million with a market value of €22.38 million($22.99 million).
The club’s nine domestic league titles and a CAF Cup Winners’ Cup highlight their storied past. With $6 million in revenue, Orlando Pirates continue to invest in their infrastructure and player development to maintain their competitive edge.
10. Club Africain (Tunisia)
Revenue: $5 million
Fans: over 3 million
Success: 13 Tunisian league titles, 1 African Cup Winners’ Cup title
Club Africain is a pillar of Tunisian football, with 13 league titles and a CAF Cup Winners’ Cup triumph. Their loyal fan base of 3 million continues to support them passionately. Despite financial challenges, the club’s $5 million revenue highlights its resilience and enduring appeal
11. RS Berkane (Renaissance Sportive de Berkane), Morocco
In May 2025, RS Berkane earned $2 million for winning the CAF Confederation Cup title
Fans: Estimated in the millions across Morocco
Success: Berkane have won 4 trophies; three CAF Confederation Cup titles and one CAF Super Cup title.
RS Berkane, founded on 21 May 1938, has solidified its position among Africa’s emerging football powers, thanks to strong performances in both domestic and continental competitions. The Moroccan side, which has amassed 52 points in the league, is best known for lifting the TotalEnergies CAF Confederation Cup, an achievement that boosted its stature across the continent. With a growing national following and an increasingly competitive squad, RS Berkane continues to build on its success and strengthen its position as a top-tier club in Africa.
12. Simba SC (Tanzania)
Revenue: Between Tsh20 billion ($7.9 million) and Tsh25.9 billion ($15.6 million)
Fans: Millions across East Africa
Success: Simba SC has won 22 Tanzanian Premier League titles, 5 Tanzania FA Cup and has participated in the CAF Champions League multiple times.
Simba SC, founded in 1936, remains one of East Africa’s most dominant clubs, backed by a vast fan base that stretches far beyond Tanzania. Their strong match-day attendance and growing digital footprint reflect a club with deep cultural influence and competitive ambition. With 48 points this season, Simba continues to assert its place as a regional powerhouse, combining on-field strength with an engaged and expanding community of supporters. The club is 49 percent owned by Tanzanian billionaire, Mohammed Dewji.
13. Pyramids FC (Egypt)
Revenue: $7.1 million
Fans: Growing national and regional following
Success: Consistent top-three league finishes, strong CAF Confederation Cup runs, Pyramids FC has quickly carved out a place among Africa’s ambitious clubs. Backed by solid investment and consistent performances, the club has amassed 47 points in the league and built a reputation for pushing deep into continental competitions. Its rising fan base and competitive edge underscore its growing influence in Egyptian and African football.
14. USM Alger (Algeria)
USM Alger is primarily owned (94.34 percent) by Groupe SERPORT, a major state-owned holding company specializing in Algerian port services. Groupe SERPORT is a large entity with an annual turnover of nearly 500 million euros, which provides significant financial stability and investment capacity for the club. Continental contender USM Alger stands among Algeria’s most respected clubs, backed by a long history of consistent performances both at home and across Africa. With 37 points this season, they remain firmly in the top tier, known for their competitive edge and strong showings in continental tournaments. The club’s stature continues to grow, sustained by a loyal fan base and a reputation for rising to big occasions.
15. CR Belouizdad (Algeria)
Market Value: The club’s current total market value is estimated at approximately €13.03 million ($15 million).
Fans: Over 2 million
Success: 10 Algerian league titles, multiple deep runs in CAF Champions League CR Belouizdad stands among Algeria’s most successful and stable clubs, known for consistent league dominance and credible showings in continental competitions. With 36 points in the current campaign, the club continues to underline its strength at home and abroad. Backed by an estimated fan base of more than 2 million, Belouizdad’s support remains robust. Though its financials aren’t publicly disclosed, the club’s stature and sustained performance speak to its growing influence in North African football.
