John Obi Mikel pays tribute to African teams after FIFA Club World Cup campaign

Part of the charm of watching the FIFA Club World Cup has been getting to watch teams from across the globe battle each other, exposing fans to teams and cultures they don't see on a regular basis. 

The tournament has seen the Brazilian sides really step up to the plate, while Auckland City provided their own narrative to proceedings during the group phase. 

Then there's the African sides, who each added their own flavour to the festivities in the States. Al Ahly gave Porto a real game in their 4-4 draw, while Wydad and Esperance de Tunis gave a good account of themselves in a difficult group, and Mamelodi Sundowns made a lot of friends with their performances. 

Looking back on their efforts, DAZN pundit and former Nigerian international John Obi Mikel was proud of the African teams and the role they played in the tournament. 

"They've done really well," he told DAZN News.

"Obviously, when you're playing against top sides in Europe, in South America, it's quite tough, isn't it? I think they've represented themselves really well.

"They've had a great tournament, but it's tough. It's difficult to go through to the next round. Let's hope that this is just a platform for the players to showcase their talent.

"I think that's the most important thing. I also think the appearance fee money that they're going to get is going to go a long way for the clubs, which is something very, very important.

"So I think they've done well. I think they will hold their heads high and hopefully come back next time." 

Obi Mikel has also been impressed with his former side, Chelsea, so far in the competition. The Blues booked their place in the last eight with a win over Benfica on Saturday, and he thinks the club could end up as winners of the tournament, especially with their new frontman leading the line.  

Adding, "I believe in the team. I believe in what we're doing, the project we have. So, hopefully, we go all the way.

"Liam Dealp will add a lot. I think his movement on the pitch, the way he's very good on the ball. He's very physical.

"He will score goals for us. I think that's something I think he'll add to the team."

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