Foden and Doku Shine in Philadelphia

Manchester City kicked off their 2025 FIFA Club World Cup campaign with a confident 2-0 victory over Moroccan champions Wydad AC, thanks to first-half goals from Phil Foden and Jeremy Doku. The match, played at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia, saw Pep Guardiola’s side dominate possession and control the tempo, despite a spirited response from Wydad.

Lightning Start: Foden Strikes Inside Two Minutes

City wasted no time asserting their authority. In just the second minute, Phil Foden capitalized on a goalkeeping error after Savinho’s cross was spilled by Mehdi Benabid. The England international pounced on the loose ball to score the fastest goal of the tournament so far, setting the tone for a dominant first half.

Wydad’s Response: Pressure Without Precision

Despite the early setback, Wydad responded with intensity and direct play, creating several half-chances. South African forward Thembinkosi Lorch and Cassius Mailula were particularly lively, with Mailula forcing a smart save from Ederson midway through the first half. However, the Moroccan side lacked the clinical edge to convert their pressure into goals

Doku Doubles the Lead Before the Break

Just before halftime, City struck again. Jeremy Doku tapped in at the back post after a well-delivered corner from Foden, giving the Premier League side a two-goal cushion heading into the break. The Belgian winger nearly added a second early in the second half, but was denied by Benabid in a one-on-one situation.

Second Half: Control and Composure

City managed the second half with maturity, introducing Rodri, Erling Haaland, and Oscar Bobb to maintain control. Haaland came close to scoring late on, but his chipped effort was saved. The only blemish on City’s performance came in the 88th minute when Rico Lewis was controversially sent off for a high boot challenge on Samuel Obeng2.

Player of the Match: Phil Foden

Foden was instrumental throughout, scoring the opener and assisting the second. His creativity, composure, and leadership in midfield earned him the Michelob Ultra Superior Player of the Match award

What’s Next?

• Manchester City face Al Ain on June 22 in Atlanta.
• Wydad AC will look to bounce back against Juventus in their next Group G fixture.
  
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