Phil Foden’s brilliance guided Manchester City to a commanding win against Moroccan champions Wydad Casablanca in their Fifa Club World Cup opener at Lincoln Financial Field on Wednesday.
The Premier League side joined European giants Paris St-Germain, Bayern Munich, and Chelsea in securing first-round victories, with Foden’s goal and assist proving decisive.
Despite patches of empty seats in the stadium, thousands of City supporters witnessed a masterclass from the 25-year-old England midfielder.
Foden opened the scoring just two minutes in, calmly slotting home from 12 yards, before his pinpoint corner allowed Jeremy Doku to double the lead before halftime.
Pep Guardiola’s side, heavy favorites, welcomed back Ballon d’Or winner Rodri for only his second appearance since a serious knee injury in September. Erling Haaland, introduced as a substitute, nearly added to the scoreline but was denied by Wydad goalkeeper Mehdi Benabid.
Wydad, featuring debutant Nordin Amrabat—formerly of Watford and Hull—showed flashes of promise on the counter but failed to trouble City goalkeeper Ederson.
However, City’s night was marred by a late red card for Rico Lewis, who was sent off for a high boot on Samuel Obeng, ruling him out of Monday’s clash with Al Ain.