An Ivorian player draws attention at the Club World Cup... but why?

Africa 23 June 2025 at 04:54

Mohamed Rek

News Editor

Ivorian footballer Georgie Minoungou (22), a winger for the Seattle Sounders in the United States, captured everyone's attention at the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, currently taking place in the US.

Minoungou featured in his team's match, which ended in a 1-3 defeat on the second matchday of this global tournament.

With only one eye, Georgie Minoungou impresses at the 2025 Club World Cup

What makes his performance even more remarkable is that Minoungou plays with vision in just one eye, having lost sight in his left eye after surgery following an accident in 2023.

Despite this setback, he never gave up on his dream. He joined the Seattle Sounders in the summer of 2024, signing a contract through 2028.

In an interview, Minoungou revealed: "It was one of the toughest times of my life. I had a chance to break into the first team, but gradually I started having problems with my eye. I had to undergo surgery."

He added resolutely: "Since then, I’ve played with one eye, and I’m convinced I can be better than those who see with both. That’s my mentality."

Since arriving in Seattle, Minoungou has played 35 matches, scored one goal, and delivered five assists, earning him a spot in the Club World Cup squad.

Also read: These 4 "Elephants" available on the 2025 summer transfer market