In a challenging match during the second round of the group stage at the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, Wydad Casablanca faced a heavy defeat against Italian side Juventus, losing 4-1 at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia.
This loss significantly diminishes Wydad’s chances of advancing to the Round of 16, following their initial defeat to Manchester City by a score of 2-0.
### Match Details: A Disastrous Start and Defensive Collapse
The match began with Juventus asserting complete control, capitalizing on swift attacks led by Kenan Yildiz and Randal Kolo Muani. In the sixth minute, Wydad’s defender, Bouhtail, inadvertently scored an own goal, disrupting the Moroccan team’s game plan. Fifteen minutes later, Yildiz netted the second goal with a powerful shot, followed by Kolo Muani, who added a third in the 30th minute. Although Wydad attempted to respond with a spectacular goal from Thimbinkhosi Lorch in the 40th minute, Juventus sealed the match with a fourth goal from a penalty in the closing minutes.
### Reasons for Wydad’s Defeat: Defensive Weakness and Lack of Focus
Wydad experienced an early defensive collapse characterized by individual errors, such as the own goal, highlighting a lack of coordination. Juventus effectively exploited the spaces behind Wydad’s defense, while the Moroccan team struggled to contain the Italian side’s attacking trio. Offensively, despite Lorch’s goal, Wydad lacked precision in capitalizing on opportunities, with Omar Al-Somah squandering several chances. Juventus dominated possession with 68% and demonstrated effective shooting, asserting their superiority.
### Impact of the Loss on Wydad in the Tournament
Following the 4-1 defeat, Wydad finds itself at the bottom of Group 7 without any points, rendering their advancement to the Round of 16 nearly impossible. Their final match against Al Ain from the UAE on June 26, 2025, now serves to protect their pride, as even a victory might not suffice for advancement given the potential progression of Juventus and Manchester City. This outcome underscores the significant challenges faced by African clubs against elite European teams.
### Reactions and Future Outlook
Wydad fans expressed their disappointment on social media, praising Lorch’s efforts while criticizing the team’s defensive performance and preparation. The coaching staff must reassess their defensive strategies and improve focus ahead of the final match. In the long term, Wydad will need to invest in experienced international players to bridge the gap with global clubs.
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