Audi Field in Washington, D.C. witnessed a dramatic encounter as Al Ain overturned an early deficit to defeat Morocco’s Wydad 2-1, wrapping up their FIFA Club World Cup journey on a high. While neither side progressed to the knockout stages, the clash delivered thrilling moments that captivated football fans across the globe, including here in Tanzania.
A Bright Start for Wydad
Despite knowing their fate was sealed before kick-off, Wydad entered the pitch with fiery determination. Within just five minutes, South African forward Cassius Mailula blasted the Moroccan side into the lead, finding the top corner with a powerful strike from the edge of the area. Wydad nearly doubled their advantage moments later when Oussama Zemraoui’s stretched effort trickled agonizingly wide following a flicked header by Omar Al Souma.
Wydad’s vibrant start echoed their spirited performances against group giants Juventus and Manchester City, even though they’d fallen short in those encounters.
Al Ain’s Steady Response
Al Ain, managed by Vladimir Ivić, weathered Wydad’s early storm. Their first real chance arrived in the 20th minute when Yahya Ben Khaleq’s header went narrowly wide. As the match opened up, the UAE side found their rhythm, and it wasn’t long before they made their mark.
After Kodjo Laba saw a fine goal disallowed for offside, Al Ain were awarded a penalty late in the first half. Adis Jašić was brought down in the box by Wydad’s Ayoub Boucheta after a slick through ball from Kaku. Laba stepped up and made no mistake from the spot, sending the sides into the break level at 1-1.
Kaku’s Moment of Magic
The second half maintained a frantic pace. Al Ain capitalized on their momentum when Paraguayan playmaker Kaku curled home a sensational strike into the top corner. Though the goal required a VAR check for a possible foul in the build-up, it was ultimately allowed to stand, putting Al Ain 2-1 ahead.
While Wydad continued to push forward, clear-cut chances became scarce. The best opportunity fell to Laba, who astonishingly missed a near-certain goal from close range, firing wide of the post.
A Bittersweet Conclusion
Despite their early promise, Wydad ended the tournament bottom of Group G, reflecting missed opportunities in both this match and their prior outings. Al Ain, meanwhile, salvaged pride with a spirited victory, offering a silver lining to an otherwise disappointing campaign.
For Tanzanian football lovers, this clash served as another reminder of how vibrant and unpredictable the FIFA Club World Cup can be—a tournament that continues to capture hearts far beyond its host nations.
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