Manchester City vs Wydad AC
Noon kickoff? No problem. Nearly 40k spectators showed up earlier today to catch Man City take on Wydad AC at Lincoln Financial Field in Philly. And The Citizens paid it back quick on the pitch. Phil Foden slotted one home less than two minutes into the match, and then added an assist before halftime. Game, set, match. A comfortable start for the reigning champions, who now get to defend their title in this expanded field. For now, it seems like they could make an important run in the tournament. Factor in the support they’ve garnered on this side of the pond over the years, and you could bet you’ll see them in the final stages, uplifted by their American faithful.
Photography by: Rodolfho Chona
Manchester City opened their Club World Cup campaign with a composed 2-0 victory against Morocco’s Wydad Casablanca in Group G action on Wednesday. Early goals from Phil Foden and Jérémy Doku set the tone for a commanding display at Lincoln Financial Field, even as the sweltering midday heat posed challenges.
City wasted no time asserting themselves. Within two minutes, Phil Foden capitalized on a loose ball after Savinho’s cross was fumbled by Wydad goalkeeper Mehdi Benabid. The England international pounced to fire home the tournament’s fastest goal so far, giving Pep Guardiola’s side a perfect start.
Despite Guardiola resting key players like Erling Haaland, Rodri, and Rúben Dias, the reigning Champions League winners looked sharp. Foden’s energy was matched by summer signings Tijjani Reijnders and Rayan Cherki, both making their debuts and playing vital roles in City’s fluid attack.
Wydad responded valiantly, showing flashes of danger on the counter-attack. South African forward Thembinkosi Lorch nearly caught City off guard with an ambitious lob from midfield that forced Éderson to scramble back, while Cassius Mailula tested the City keeper with a close-range effort.
However, City’s quality shone through again just before halftime. Foden delivered a precise corner that found Jérémy Doku unmarked at the far post. The Belgian winger coolly volleyed in to double the lead, deflating Wydad’s growing momentum.
The second half saw a drop in tempo as the heat took its toll. Guardiola introduced Erling Haaland and Rodri to maintain control, but City were unable to extend their lead despite a handful of chances. Cherki nearly marked his debut with a goal, but his curling effort was spectacularly saved by Benabid.
Late drama ensued when Rico Lewis was shown a straight red card for a sliding challenge on Samuel Obeng in the 88th minute. The decision appeared harsh, but City managed to see out the match comfortably despite being down to 10 men.
Wydad showed resilience throughout, with Lorch and Mailula leading spirited counter-attacks. “We did a good job against a team as big as Manchester City,” said Wydad defender Fahd Moufi. “We represented Morocco well and will build on this effort against Juventus.”
With the win, Manchester City top Group G ahead of their clash against UAE’s Al Ain on Sunday. Wydad, meanwhile, will face Juventus in their next match as they seek to bounce back.
Phil Foden’s standout performance, featuring a goal and an assist, was crucial to City’s strong start. The English midfielder’s sharpness in attack and creativity in midfield underscored why he remains a central figure for Guardiola.
“Starting the tournament with a win is always important,” said Foden. “It’s tough in the heat, but we’re here to compete and keep improving.”
City’s depth and tactical adaptability make them strong contenders to retain the Club World Cup title, with this victory serving as a confident opening statement.
