FIFA Club World Cup: Wydad AC fall to Manchester City in Group G opener

Photo: Wydad Athletic Club

Morocco's Wydad AC began their 2025 FIFA Club World Cup campaign in Group G with a commendable effort that ultimately ended in a 0-2 defeat to English Premier League giants Manchester City on Wednesday at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

It took less than two minutes for City to open the scoring when Phil Foden was in the right place to finish inside the penalty area after Wydad goalkeeper Mehdi Benabid pushed away a cross from the right wing. Jeremy Doku doubled City's advantage close to halftime on an assist from Foden.

The early goal did cause City to relax a bit while Wydad attempted to show more attacking ambition. The Casablanca giants created a couple of good opportunities in the first half with South African attacker Thembinkosi Lorch coming closest after he found space for a shot attempt that was denied by Sky Blues goalkeeper Ederson in the 32nd minute.

But chances were few and far between for overmatched Wydad and City were able to find a second goal to leave little doubt about the result.

In the 42nd minute, a Foden corner kick found Belgium national team attacker Doku at the far post. Wydad central defender Abdelmounaim Boutouil was far too careless as he attempted to clear the ball and did not see Doku sneak in ahead of him to poke past Benabid for a goal that crushed any momentum created by Wydad.

The second half featured less action as City appeared to be content while Wydad lacked the firepower to muster more than a handful of attacks. In a controversial moment towards the end, City midfielder Rico Lewis was sent off after winning the ball with a challenge that saw his boot swipe the face of Wydad forward Samuel Obeng.

Wydad now need a result against Juventus in their next match on Sunday, also at the same venue. City will take on Emirati club Al Ain in Atlanta, Georgia.