FIFA Club World Cup to kick off in UAE’s Abu Dhabi, al-Ain

The FIFA Club World Cup kicks off on Wednesday in the United Arab Emirates’ city of al-Ain and capital Abu Dhabi.

The event in its 14th edition will see local favorites al-Jazira take on New Zealand’s Auckland City.

Defending champions Real Madrid are the favorites to win the cup this year and return to the competition with largely the same squad as last year.

Japan’s Urawa Red Diamonds are expected to continue their excellent run of results. Morocco’s Wydad Athletic Club and host club Al Jazira will hope to become the latest African and Asian sides to reach the final on their debuts, according to FIFA’s website.