Moroccan club Wydad delivered a spirited and commendable performance in their opening Group G match of the FIFA Club World Cup, facing off against European giants Manchester City.
Despite a 2-0 defeat, the Moroccan side earned widespread praise from the British press for their determination, tactical discipline, and fearless approach against one of the world’s top clubs.
In its live coverage, The Guardian highlighted that Wydad were far from pushovers, noting the team’s strong character and ability to create clear scoring chances that forced City’s Brazilian goalkeeper Ederson into several key saves, particularly from Thembinkosi Lorch and Mohamed Mofid, who stood out as Wydad’s top performers.
The Sun focused on Wydad’s mental resilience, applauding the team for maintaining composure and continuing to press forward even after conceding an early goal.
“Falling behind so early did not knock the confidence of the Moroccans who clearly still fancied their chances,” the outlet wrote, adding that Wydad mounted sustained pressure at various stages, testing City’s defense repeatedly.
Reuters also recognized Wydad’s tactical discipline and organized resistance, emphasizing the team’s effective use of counterattacks and commending the players’ focus in withstanding City’s offensive pressure, despite a clear disparity in market value and international experience.
Praise extended beyond the pitch, as British media also lauded Wydad’s fanbase.
The Sun described the atmosphere created by the Moroccan supporters at Philadelphia’s stadium as “electric,” with chants, banners, and red flares adding intensity to the matchday experience.
“Aside from the first twenty minutes, when they tried to recover from going a goal down early on, they made themselves heard,” the newspaper wrote, adding “with the flares, chants and drums their fans certainly create their very own atmosphere.”
Looking ahead, Wydad is set to face Juventus on Sunday, which currently tops the group after a dominant 5-0 win over Al Ain.
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