Moroccan grit meets European might: Wydad's Club World Cup Showdown
· Tactical discipline the key to causing upsets
· Star players must shine on the global stage
Wydad Casablanca are back on the global stage, looking to channel the fire that propelled them to TotalEnergies CAF Champions League glory in 2021/22. But the Moroccan titans face a monumental task at this year's FIFA Club World Cup, having landed in what many are calling the 'Group of Death.'
Awaiting them are former English champions Manchester City, Italian giants Juventus, and UAE powerhouse Al Ain — a daunting trio by any measure.
Wydad's domestic form hasn't been quite as inspiring, finishing third in the Moroccan Botola Pro 1 this season. Despite a strong continental pedigree, their recent inconsistencies have raised questions about their readiness for such elite competition.
Still, in tournament football, the unpredictable often becomes reality — and head coach Mohamed Amine Benhachem is counting on that very unpredictability.
Much will depend on individual brilliance. Mohamed Rayhi, Wydad's top scorer with 11 goals this season, will be their primary threat from the left wing. Up front, Cassius Mailula's sharp finishing — despite just five goals so far — offers another potential spark.
In the engine room, midfielders Oussama Zemraoui and Ismail Moutaraji will need to dictate tempo, win duels, and transition play swiftly under pressure.
Defensively, Wydad must be near perfect. One lapse could spell disaster against teams of such calibre. But history has shown that organization, belief, and timely goals can carry underdogs far — and Wydad will be hoping to write a chapter of their own.
While few expect them to advance past this brutal group, Wydad Casablanca are no strangers to adversity. If they can frustrate their opponents, capitalize on limited opportunities, and draw strength from their passionate supporters, a shock result or two is not out of the question.
This Club World Cup will test Wydad like never before. But with grit and discipline, Morocco's finest could yet turn the tide against European heavyweights.
Wydad AC FIFA Club World Cup Fixtures:
Wednesday, 18 June: Manchester City vs Wydad AC | 16h00 GMT
Sunday, 22 June: Juventus FC vs Wydad AC | 16h00 GMT
Thursday, 26 June: Wydad AC vs Al Ain | 19h00 GMT
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