Philadelphia, June 18, 2025 — Under the glowing lights of Lincoln Financial Field, Manchester City launched their 2025 FIFA Club World Cup campaign in cinematic fashion, cruising to a 2-0 victory over Morocco’s Wydad AC. This was no ordinary win—it was a statement of dominance, flair, and firepower.
⚡ Foden Fires Fastest Goal in Club World Cup History
The match erupted into life just 84 seconds in, when Phil Foden struck a venomous left-footer into the bottom corner, registering the fastest-ever goal in the tournament’s history. Not done yet, Foden continued to dazzle the 62,000-strong crowd with his footwork and vision, eventually slipping in a sublime assist for Jeremy Doku, who danced past defenders and slotted in the second goal just before halftime.
🟥 Red Card Drama: Rico Lewis Sees Red
The high-octane encounter wasn’t short of controversy. In the 84th minute, Rico Lewis was handed a straight red card after his raised boot accidentally caught Samuel Obeng in the face during a high challenge. The decision sparked mixed reactions, but City held their composure and saw out the game with class.
🧠 Guardiola’s Masterplan in Motion
Pep Guardiola’s strategy was pure tactical poetry. Despite the early lead, the Spaniard made smart second-half substitutions, giving minutes to stars like Erling Haaland, who nearly scored with a thunderous header. City’s fluid 4-3-3 formation kept Wydad AC chasing shadows all evening.
🔥 Wydad’s Brave Effort Falls Short
To their credit, Wydad AC refused to be passengers. The African champions pressed high in bursts and carved out a couple of promising counter-attacks, but lacked the clinical edge to breach City’s defense. Their coach, Youssef Amrani, praised his side’s spirit but admitted the level of competition was “another universe”.
📅 What’s Next?
- Manchester City will lock horns with Al Ain in Atlanta on Monday, June 23.
- Wydad AC will aim to salvage their campaign against Juventus on Sunday, June 22, in what could be a knockout-defining clash.
🔎 Match Stats Recap:
- ⚽ Goals: Foden (2’), Doku (44’)
- 🟥 Red Card: Rico Lewis (84’)
- 🔄 Sub Highlights: Haaland, Kovacic, Alvarez brought in
- 🏟️ Attendance: 62,137 fans