A South African-born striker has been drawn into one of the toughest groups at the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup.
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New Zealand-based club Auckland City FC will be going up against Bayern Munich, Benfica, and Boca Juniors in the competition next year.
Currently under contract at Auckland is Cape Town native Ryan De Vries, who has spent his entire career abroad.
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City faces its toughest challenge ever after Club World Cup draw placed us alongside the biggest names in world football.
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The experienced striker, 33, returned to Auckland for a second spell in 2022, having previously represented the club between 2013 and 2018.
De Vries has an impressive goal contribution record for the Navy Blues, playing a part in 134 goals in 195 appearances across all competitions.
While it remains unknown whether he will continue at Auckland beyond this year, his experience could make him an important player for the team.
In the past, De Vries has amassed eight appearances in the Club World Cup, scoring one goal and assisting another.
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This season, meanwhile, he contributed to 12 goals in 29 matches.
