Manchester City vs Wydad AC (FIFA Club World Cup Group Stage): Match Preview, Team News, Head to Head, How To Watch
Date: August 5, 2025
Venue: King Abdullah Sports City Stadium, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
Kick-off: 8:00 PM local time (GMT+3)
The 2025 FIFA Club World Cup is underway, and one of the most anticipated group stage fixtures features reigning UEFA Champions League winners Manchester City facing off against African powerhouse Wydad AC. This match not only sets the tone for Group B but also represents a fascinating clash of footballing cultures and tactical approaches.
Overview
Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City are looking to add another prestigious trophy to their cabinet after a dominant campaign in Europe and the Premier League. Meanwhile, Wydad AC arrives in Saudi Arabia as CAF Champions League runners-up, determined to prove that African club football can stand toe-to-toe with Europe’s elite.
Both teams boast rich histories, passionate followings, and distinct playing styles, setting the stage for a thrilling encounter in Jeddah.
Match Significance
This game is crucial for both sides. In the revamped Club World Cup format, only the top two from each group progress to the knockout rounds. With strong South American and Asian teams also in the group, every point counts.
For Manchester City, a victory would affirm their status as tournament favorites, while Wydad AC would make headlines with even a draw. The stakes are high, and both sides know that early momentum is vital.
Team News
Manchester City
Injuries: Kevin De Bruyne remains sidelined with a long-term hamstring injury, though he’s resumed light training. Goalkeeper Ederson is doubtful after a knock in pre-tournament training. Josko Gvardiol and Bernardo Silva are expected to return to the starting XI after being rested in recent friendlies.
Expected Lineup:
- GK: Ortega (if Ederson is unfit)
- DEF: Walker, Dias, Gvardiol, Ake
- MID: Rodri, Bernardo Silva, Foden
- ATT: Doku, Haaland, Grealish
Manager's Note: Guardiola has emphasized the importance of respecting all opponents. “Wydad are a proud team with strong character. We must be at our best, tactically and mentally,” he said in the pre-match press conference.
Wydad AC
Injuries: Star midfielder Yahya Jabrane is a fitness concern but may be risked given the magnitude of the match. Captain Ayoub El Kaabi is fit and expected to start up front.
Expected Lineup:
- GK: Youssef El Motie
- DEF: Dari, Attiyat-Allah, El Amloud, Hanoun
- MID: Jabrane (if fit), El Moutaraji, Zouhair El Ouassli
- ATT: El Kaabi, Bouhra, Mbenza
Coach’s View: Adil Ramzi, Wydad’s head coach, noted: “We respect City, but we fear no one. Our goal is to play smart, use our speed, and capitalize on any space they give us.”
Head-to-Head Record
This will be the first-ever competitive meeting between Manchester City and Wydad AC. Historically, European and African clubs have had limited interaction at the Club World Cup, but the narrative is slowly changing with increased competitiveness from CAF sides.
Notably, Wydad faced Al Hilal and Flamengo in previous tournaments, showing tactical resilience and strong crowd backing. Manchester City, on the other hand, will be making their Club World Cup debut following their Champions League triumph in 2024.
Tactical Preview
Manchester City’s Approach
Expect Guardiola to dominate possession, pressing high and controlling tempo. City will likely start in a 4-3-3 or 3-2-4-1 formation, with Rodri dictating from deep and Foden playing between the lines. Haaland remains the biggest threat, and Wydad’s defenders must stay compact to neutralize his movement and power.
City may exploit wide areas, particularly through Doku’s speed and Grealish’s trickery. Set pieces and second-ball reco
