Manchester City began their FIFA Club World Cup 2025 journey in commanding style with a 2-0 victory over Wydad Casablanca at Philadelphia’s Lincoln Financial Field. The match saw a rejuvenated Phil Foden return to form, playing a pivotal role in both goals.
It was a confident, if not flashy, performance from Pep Guardiola’s side, who controlled possession from the start and struck early through Foden. The England international, who had been battling a tough spell both mentally and professionally, made an immediate impact by scoring the fastest goal of the tournament so far—netting in just the second minute after capitalizing on a mistake by Wydad’s goalkeeper Mehdi Benabid.
Foden could have scored again later in the first half but was denied by Benabid. However, he made up for the miss by delivering an excellent corner just before the break, which Jeremy Doku volleyed into the net, doubling City’s advantage.
Match Highlights & Key Moments
From the opening whistle, City showed their intent. Their pressing, passing combinations, and wing play were too much for the Moroccan champions. Savinho was instrumental on the left flank, using his quick footwork to beat defenders, and his early cross led to the first goal after a poor punch-out by the goalkeeper.
Nathan Ake, back from a long injury layoff, looked solid at the back and nearly scored himself from a set-piece. Meanwhile, Vitor Reis looked vulnerable under pressure and almost gifted Wydad a goal after a poor clearance.
In midfield, Tijjani Reijnders had a quiet but steady debut. He maintained City’s rhythm but didn’t venture forward as much, likely due to City’s aggressive formation. His influence increased once Rodri was introduced in the second half.
Young signing Rayan Cherki, playing his first competitive game for City, had a mixed outing. Though he showed flashes of skill and even created a good chance for Foden, he also gave away the ball cheaply on a few occasions and was substituted after 60 minutes.
Player Ratings – Manchester City
Goalkeeper & Defence
- Ederson (7/10): Sharp reactions and great positioning saved City from conceding.
- Rico Lewis (4/10): Mixed performance; useful in midfield but received a late red card.
- Vitor Reis (5/10): Looked nervous and struggled under pressure.
- Nathan Ake (7/10): Defended with authority and contributed to the attack.
- Nico O’Reilly (6/10): Drifted into midfield and supported possession play well.
Midfield
- Phil Foden (8/10): Scored early and assisted the second goal. Looked sharp and confident.
- Tijjani Reijnders (6/10): Calm in possession, improved as the game progressed.
- Rayan Cherki (5/10): Promising moments but lacked consistency.
Attack
- Savinho (6/10): Creative early on but faded in the second half.
- Omar Marmoush (6/10): Energetic presence and came close to scoring.
- Jeremy Doku (8/10): City’s best attacking player. Scored with a well-taken volley.
Late Drama: Rico Lewis Sent Off
The only negative note for City came in injury time when Rico Lewis received a controversial red card. The youngster appeared surprised by the decision, which could be reviewed after the match.
Looking Ahead
Manchester City will head into their next fixture with confidence, knowing that their key players—particularly Phil Foden and Jeremy Doku—are finding their rhythm at the right time. Pep Guardiola, while satisfied with the win, may look to tighten things defensively, especially given the lapses shown by some young players.
Match Summary
- 🏟️ Venue: Lincoln Financial Field, Philadelphia
- ⚽ Goals: Foden (2’), Doku (44’)
- 🟥 Red Card: Rico Lewis (90+3’)
- 👔 Coach: Pep Guardiola
