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Manchester City vs Wydad Preview: Odds, Tips and Prediction

Venue: Lincoln Financial Field Kickoff Time: 17:00 (UK Time) The reigning champions Manchester City begin their defence of the Club World Cup against the Moroccan side, and after their trophyless season under Pep Guardiola, they will be likely up for this tournament in the United States. Wydad will know they are up against it here, but with the chance to shock the world, they will not simply roll over and make up the numbers here.

Ryan Liberty
Ryan Liberty

Last updated: 2025-06-17

Chad Nagel

7 minutes read

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Erling Haaland celebrates scoring his team's third goal with teammates Josko Gvardiol and Savinho

Erling Haaland, Josko Gvardiol and Savinho/Getty Images

Pre-Game Odds and Win Probability:

  1. Home: 1/9 (1.11) – 89%

  2. Draw: 17/2 (8.50) – 9%

Head-To-Head Record 

There are no previous meetings between these two sides.

Manchester City Current Form – WDLWW

Manchester City have come through a season they would be largely disappointed with. Yes, the standard in Europe – particularly in England – is incredible, but given the quality that has been Guardiola’s City in recent times, this will be a disappointment. 
Notably, though, they have an impressive defensive record and have bolstered their defensive ability with some new signings during this window. With a statistic like six clean sheets in their ten games, they will be confident of achieving something considerable in the States.

  1. Key Players to Watch

    Phil Foden 
    He is a player who we know has versatility and a serious goal threat. As much as he is a player who blows hot and cold, you can count him out at your peril in big moments. Keep an eye on him here.

    Rayan Cherki
    The Frenchman has been another recent addition to Pep Guardiola’s side. He seems fired up and ready to hit the ground running. Speaking to the media after getting onto a plane for America, Cherki quipped how he only wanted this City move and cannot wait to contribute to their attacking endeavors. Keep an eye on him here.

    Rayan Ait-Nouri
    He is a recent signing for City and comes with an incredible Premier League record. His overlapping runs and crossing ability only add to his holistic excellence – but expect to see him at the forefront of City’s attack.

  2. Manchester City Team News 

    City no longer enjoy the services of Kevin De Bruyne, the Belgian player departed the club after his contract came to an end. However, John Stones has returned from a lengthy layoff and is likely to feature once again.

Wydad Current Form – DDWWW

Wydad come into this fixture after a domestic season which was largely up and down. They managed to finish third domestically, but their defensive stability was a constant they would be proud of and remains a key aspect of their identity. 
It might be foolish to suggest they are a side who is able to beat teams at the height of City’s history, but their organizational ability, coupled with their discipline, makes them an intriguing opponent for a City side who have stumbled throughout the season.

  1. Key Players to Watch

    Nordin Amrabat
    His physicality and European experience make him an intriguing player to watch in this encounter. Keep an eye on him here.

    Renan Viana 
    He isn’t a player who often shoots the lights out, but his creativity in possession and confidence through the midfield could make him a player who the Moroccan side need to rely on.

    Mehdi Moubarik
    There has been a bit of talk about whether or not Moubarik will play during this tournament, but if he is included, he certainly makes his side better. He is a no-nonsense player who approaches his defensive duties with absolute and unforgiving intensity.

  2. Wydad Team News 

    At the time of writing, Wydad has a fully fit squad. However, they have not yet confirmed whether their loanees will remain eligible for selection. 

Suggested Bets

These suggested bets highlight how odds can vary across trusted online betting sites, especially when factoring in recent form and defensive records.

  1. Manchester City to Win to Nil: The club from England come into the game with a strong defensive record and an incredible attacking threat. 4/9 (1.44) with BetWinner

  2. Over 1.5 Goals: It could be a banker for the week, but given the attacking power of City alone, this could land. 15/100 (1.15) with Stake 

  3. Both Teams to Score (No): As another betting angle on the scoring prowess of each side and the associated defensive record, back this betting angle. 4/10 (1.4) with Stake.

Value Bets

Placing bold bets like these can offer even more value when paired with a welcome bonus on your chosen sportsbook.

  1. Anytime Goalscorer (Erling Haaland): Back the prolific striker to do what he does!  9/5 (2.8) with Betway

  2. 1st Ten Minutes (City): Back City to get off to a flying start and earn an early lead within the first ten minutes. 28/10 (3.8) with 1xBet

  3. 1st Half Totals (Over 2.5): This could be a bit of a tough ask, for the brave punter, back over 2.5 goals in just the first half at generous odds. 31/10 (4.8) with Pinnacle

Prediction: Manchester City to Win

It isn’t really going to shoot the lights out and earn you too many plaudits, but back City to claim a win here. They have the better side with complete players in every position. They will likely go through this tournament with something to prove and likely make a point here. 

Ryan Liberty
Ryan LibertyBetting Writer

Ryan Liberty is an experienced sports writer whose articles have featured in some of the biggest sports publications in South Africa. With a strong understanding of all major sports and an in-depth understanding of betting, Ryan consistently delivers insightful content. He's also known for his ability to break down complex topics into engaging, reader-friendly pieces.

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