If fans expected the Manchester City showcase at the FIFA Club World Cup, they got it—and fast. The temperature in Philadelphia soared, but it was City who turned up the heat on the pitch. Phil Foden wasted no time, scoring just 92 seconds after kickoff. A nervy backline from Wydad AC couldn't handle a fizzing cross from Savinho. The ball bounced loose, and Foden, razor-sharp in the box, crashed it home from meters out, immediately putting City in the driver’s seat.
That quick opener seemed to shake Wydad, whose defenders struggled to regroup. Manchester City kept pushing, pinning their opponents deep and probing with every attack. Savinho, drafted into the starting eleven, offered real spark on the wings, stretching the Wydad defense with his pace and control. Within the first 15 minutes, it was hard to see Wydad AC threatening City's rhythm—they barely had a chance to catch their breath.
The match wasn’t just about the scoreline; it was a glimpse into the squad’s depth. Tijjani Reijnders and Rayan Cherki both made their City debuts. Reijnders slotted comfortably into midfield, moving the ball with a composure that Pep Guardiola would appreciate. Cherki, meanwhile, added flair, linking up with Foden and Savinho to carve up Wydad's flanks. These fresh faces blended seamlessly, making City's already powerful attack look even more unpredictable.
Wydad AC did find a rare opening midway through the half. Thembinkosi Lorch darted past City's high line, suddenly one-on-one with Ederson. For a split second, it looked like the Moroccan side might snag an equalizer. But Ederson’s reflexes are world-class – he closed the angle, blocked the shot, and City’s back four swiftly swept away any danger. Moments later, Doku made them pay at the other end. Rising highest from a Foden corner, he met the ball with a rocket of a left boot, drilling it past the keeper for City’s second goal. Two up and cruising into halftime, Guardiola’s men barely broke a sweat, even with the muggy conditions.
The second half had fewer fireworks, but City’s grip never loosened. Every possession drilled home that they were in control, knocking the ball around, probing for a third. Wydad rallied for spells, but lacked edge in the final third. The only real jolt came from a flashpoint late on: Rico Lewis, frustrated in midfield, lunged in and saw red. For a moment, it felt like there might be late drama, but Wydad couldn’t capitalize.
This display places Manchester City at the top of Group G and sends a clear message to their tournament rivals. With a stacked squad and momentum already humming, Pep Guardiola’s side looks set to chase another piece of silverware—and right now, it’s hard to see who might stop them.