Rodri awful, Phil Foden dazzles – Man City player ratings v Wydad Casablanca
Pep Guardiola’s Man City kicked off their Club World Cup campaign as they recorded a not-so-easy 2-0 win over Wydad Casablanca.
Phil Foden, who has been tipped for a controversial Arsenal switch, got City off the mark in Philadelphia on Wednesday, 18 June, hitting the back of the net after just two minutes.
It was far from smooth sailing for the Premier League giants, however, as the Moroccans had multiple chances to equalise before Jeremy Doku fired home moments before half-time.
Keith Hackett told Football Insider referee Ramon Abatti made the correct call not to send Cassius Mailula off for his “reckless” challenge on Omar Marmoush, but it was one of the major talking points of the game.
Rico Lewis did receive a red card, however, as he controversially sent off after catching his opponent in the face with his follow-through despite already winning the ball fairly.
Man City keep a clean sheet in first Club World Cup clash
Ederson – 6
Remained calm at the back, staying switched on despite a dominant display from his teammates. Acted when called upon.
Rico Lewis – 4
A rather disappointing display from the academy graduate, having grown into a much bigger role. The sending-off, however, was unfair for the 20-year-old.
Vitor Reis – 3
A humbling match for the young Brazilian, having been caught out multiple times, sat down by the opposition striker, but was somehow able to keep a clean sheet. Not very promising.
Nathan Ake – 7
Solid display from the Dutchman. Important for the 30-year-old to remain fit this season after only making 10 appearances across all competitions last term.
Rayan Cherki and Tijjani Reijnders given Man City debuts
Nico O’Reilly – 5
The 20-year-old was clearly seen as a weak point in City’s defence, with Wydad continuously targeting him. Guardiola remained positive and allowed him to see out the 90 minutes.
Tijjani Reijnders – 6
Nothing too special from Reijnders, but nothing bad to say about his performance either.
Rayan Cherki (Off for Haaland 60′) – 5
Lacked the creative spark expected from the new signing. Only created a single chance before being substituted, leaving supporters wanting more from the Frenchman.
Phil Foden (Off for Rodri 60′) – 9 – Player of the Match
Back to his best. Slammed home the opener, should have had another but was denied by a wonderful save, and grabbed the assist for Doku’s goal.
Pep Guardiola rings the changes against Wydad Casablanca
Savinho (Off for Nunez 90+2′) – 6
Bright display from the winger. Created chances, which were not finished off by his teammates, and was eventually sacrificed after Lewis’ red card.
Jeremy Doku (Off for Bobb 60′) – 8
Pounced at the back post to double City’s lead, taking advantage of clear hesitation from the Wydad defender. A bright display from the Belgian, who was in form over the international break.
Omar Marmoush (Off for Gunodgan 68′) – 5
Started the game very brightly, unlucky not to hit the target with either of his efforts, but grew quieter as Wydad learned how to deal with the star-studded attack.
Rodri well short of his best amid injury return
Substitutes
Oscar Bobb (On for Doku 60′) – 5
Very limited action for the winger. Created very little but had some bright sparks with the ball at his feet.
Erling Haaland (On for Cherki 60′) – 4
Far from an ideal cameo from the Norwegian star, who was kept out of the game for much of his 30 minutes on the pitch.
Rodri (On for Foden 60′) – 2
Returning to the pitch for just the second time since recovering from a brutal injury, it may seem unfair, but it was not the Spaniard’s greatest showing. He will need more minutes for the rust to wear off as he could barely string passes together.
Ilkay Gundogan (On for Marmoush 68′) – 6
Continued to work tirelessly for the team, like he did for most of last season. Created chances, put in tackles, and kept the midfield ticking over in the middle of the park.
Matheus Nunes (On for Savinho 90+2′) – N/A