Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the FIFA Club World Cup match.
An updated Manchester City side featuring Rayan Cherki and Tijjani Reijnders will begin their FIFA Club World Cup campaign against group outsiders Wydad Athletic Club. With Erling Haaland leading the line, they are determined to bounce back from a disappointing season and kick off the tournament with a commanding victory.
Manchester City
Manchester City qualified for the FIFA Club World Cup as winners of the 2022/23 UEFA Champions League. A year ago, the squad lifted the trophy in impressive fashion, beating Urawa Red Diamonds (3:0) and Fluminense FC (4:0). Once again, they are among the favourites to win the title. Over the summer, Manchester City were bolstered by the arrivals of Rayan Cherki, Tijjani Reijnders, and Rayan Ait-Nouri, and they ended last season with just one loss in their final 13 matches. The core of the squad remains intact, Rodrigo Hernández is back in midfield, and Erling Haaland continues to lead the attack.
Wydad Athletic Club
Wydad Athletic Club earned their spot in the tournament by winning the 2021/22 CAF Champions League. However, they failed to win a single match in their previous two FIFA Club World Cup appearances. The team recently appointed a new head coach and suffered defeats in friendlies against FC Porto, Sevilla FC, and also lost to Union Touarga in the domestic league. Wydad Athletic Club have struggled in attack, scoring just twice in their last four matches, and have conceded in every one of those games.
Manchester City vs Wydad Athletic Club Prediction
Wydad Athletic Club's performances in the run-up to the tournament have been underwhelming, and with a squad that lacks depth and international quality, they are unlikely to pose a real threat. Manchester City are widely expected to start their campaign with a decisive win by a margin of at least three goals.
