The Echo of the World Cup: A Acceptable Performance While Awaiting Better Days…
Reality imposed itself as Wydad Casablanca suffered a defeat that was somewhat accepted against a seasoned team like Manchester City, with a score of 0-2, in the opening match of Group 7 at the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup in America.
This defeat is acceptable for several reasons. Firstly, the complex preparations for the tournament in its new format, where Wydad finished third in the national league, faced concerns at both administrative and technical levels, and had just undergone significant changes days before the first whistle.
Secondly, there was a vast disparity in resources and capabilities between Morocco’s representative, who participated as the African champion, and the English giant that boasts financial strength and stars under the leadership of Guardiola, a coach known for his discipline and professionalism.
Despite all this, the red team managed to stand its ground against the likes of Phil Foden’s teammates, delivering a balanced and respectable performance, contrary to what even the most optimistic Wydadi fans expected. In fact, the seasoned Nooruddin Amrabat and his colleagues came close to scoring, particularly in the second half, if not for lapses in concentration and luck. Several opportunities, had they been converted, would have led to one of the tournament’s surprises.
Not far from the Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia, the Wydadi fans drew attention—not just for their sizeable presence (approximately 8,000 spectators)—but for their unique and enchanting way of cheering that lasted throughout the match. Even after their team conceded an early goal, and with the opposing crowd being larger, their support remained subdued and silent.
Undoubtedly, Wydad will strive to replicate this scenario in their next match against Italy’s Juventus, scheduled for Sunday. However, this will not be an easy task given the fierce display shown by the ‘Old Lady’ in their previous match when they overwhelmed the Emirati side Al Ain with a 5-0 thrashing.
We await better from the Wydadi squad in their confrontation with Juventus, provided they maintain the same seriousness and learn from the lessons of their match against Manchester City.
