FIFA president Gianni Infantino announced on Wednesday that the United Arab Emirates had been awarded hosting rights for this year's FIFA Club World Cup after Japan withdrew earlier this year citing Covid-19 concerns.
As a result, the reigning UAE Pro League champions Al Jazira, who boast South Africa's Thulani Serero in their playing ranks, have secured a spot in the First Round of the competition where they will meet Oceanic representative Auckland City.
Should Al Jazira overcome their opponents from New Zealand, they could meet one of three teams in the Second Round of the competition, including the yet-to-be-determined champions from the AFC and CONCACAF confederations and reigning African champions, Al Ahly.
The official fixture draw is yet to take place but the prospect of Al Ahly and Al Jazira potentially meeting in the competition will garner much attention in South Africa where fans could see three of their countrymen on display.
For the second year in a row, former Mamelodi Sundowns boss Mosimane will lead Ahly in the competition where they finished third last time around, and this time he has the added firepower of Bafana Bafana star Tau at his disposal.
Meanwhile, at the other end of the pitch, Al Jazira are able to call upon the services of star midfielder Serero, who won a host of domestic awards last season after helping the club charge towards a third league title.
