Phil Foden delivered a dazzling performance to guide Manchester City to a confident 2-0 win over Wydad Casablanca in their FIFA Club World Cup opener in Philadelphia.
Returning to form at the perfect time, Foden opened the scoring just two minutes in with a composed finish and then turned provider, whipping in a dangerous corner that Jeremy Doku converted shortly before half-time.
Despite swathes of empty seats at Lincoln Financial Field, City’s fans were vocal throughout, witnessing a controlled display from the European champions, who join PSG, Bayern Munich, and Chelsea in securing opening wins at the tournament.
City boss Pep Guardiola handed Rodri his second appearance since returning from a knee injury, while Erling Haaland came off the bench to a roaring reception but couldn’t find the net, fluffing one chance and forcing a late save from goalkeeper Mehdi Benabid.
Wydad, led by debutant Nordin ; of Watford and Hull showed flashes of promise on the counter but rarely threatened Ederson.
The only blemish for City came late on when Rico Lewis was sent off for a high boot that struck Samuel Obeng, ruling him out of Monday’s clash with Al Ain (02:00 BST).
