Juventus vs Wydad AC – FIFA Club World Cup 2025 Showdown

Juventus vs Wydad AC on June 22, 2025, at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia in a crucial Group G match of the FIFA Club World Cup. Juventus enter the game in strong form after a dominant 5–0 victory over Al Ain, while Wydad AC are looking to bounce back from a 2–0 loss to Manchester City. With top talents like Kolo Muani and Kenan Yıldız leading their attack, Juventus are favorites, but Wydad’s defensive resilience and tactical discipline could pose a challenge. This match is vital for both teams—Juventus could secure early qualification with a win, while Wydad must earn points to stay in contention for the knockout stage.

Recent Team Form

A summary of the recent form for both teams ahead of their showdown:

Juventus

In Serie A (2024–25), Juventus have enjoyed very good form, winning 16 of 35 matches, drawing 15, and losing just 4. Their home performances have been particularly strong, with 10 wins, 7 draws, and 1 defeat  .

In recent action at the Club World Cup, they opened with a commanding 5–0 win over Al Ain, with Kolo Muani and Francisco Conceição each netting a brace—showing sharp attacking intent and tactical cohesion under coach Igor Tudor  .

Overall, they’re hitting a strong groove on both domestic and international fronts, particularly buoyed by Muani’s goal-rich form (5 goals in his last 6 games)  .

Key Takeaways

Juve are riding momentum—solid home form and a clinical start in Philadelphia with tactical structure and goal-scoring in sync.

Wydad AC

In the Moroccan Botola Pro, Wydad have been in very good form too, with 13 wins, 12 draws, and 4 losses—averaging 1.76 points per game  .

However, after a managerial change in late April to Mohamed Amine Benhachem, their results have been mixed: in their last 5 official matches (league and cup), they’ve achieved 2 wins, 2 draws, and 1 defeat  .

In the Club World Cup, they kicked off with a 2–0 defeat to Manchester City. Despite controlling flashes early on and creating some good chances, they couldn’t convert, and sit at the bottom of Group G  .

Key Takeaways

Wydad show resilience but lack cutting edge lately. Their transition under new coach is ongoing, and adapting quickly in this group will be crucial.

Team Details

Here’s a refined overview of each team’s personnel and setup heading into their June 22 clash:

Juventus

Head Coach: Igor Tudor, appointed in March 2025, led Juve to secure a top-four Serie A finish and signed a new contract through 2028  .

Key players & roles:

Michele Di Gregorio starts in goal.

Central defense anchored by Federico Gatti and Pierre Kalulu  .

Midfield pivot often features Khéphren Thuram alongside Douglas Luiz or Manuel Locatelli, providing both balance and ball progression  .

Attack spearheaded by Kolo Muani, supported by Francisco Conceição and Kenan Yıldız—the latter wearing the iconic No. 10 and already a breakout talent  .

Dušan Vlahović offers a powerful focal point up front when rested or substituted  .

Tournament squad depth: 35-man roster includes Premier ready reserves like Bremer, Rugani, Kelly, Gil, plus two Next‑Gen goalkeepers  .

Current form: Juve have been impressive both domestically and internationally, opening their Club World Cup campaign with a 5–0 rout of Al Ain  .

Wydad AC

Head Coach: Mohamed Amine Benhachem, a former player and now coach since late May 2025, replacing Rhulani Mokwena  .

Core lineup & new signings:

Mehdi Benabid guards the goal and excels with his ball‑playing ability  .

Defense led by captain Jamal Harkass and Mounaim Boutouil  .

Midfield stalwart Mehdi Moubarik, on loan from Al Ain, anchors the double pivot  .

In attack, look to Cassius Mailula and Mohamed Rayhi for pace and width  .

Newly signed Nordin Amrabat, Hamza Hannouri, and Stephane Aziz Ki bring experience and depth to the squad  .

Squad dynamics: Recent arrivals aim to bolster creativity and finishing; coach Benhachem continues refining the midfield and attack  .

Form note: Despite an energetic showing, Wydad fell 2–0 to Man City in their tournament opener  .

Predicted Lineup

The predicted starting lineups for Juventus and Wydad AC in their upcoming FIFA Club World Cup Group G match on June 22, 2025:

Juventus (4–2–3–1/flex)

Predicted XI (from Bulinews):
GK: Michele Di Gregorio
CBs: Pierre Kalulu & Federico Gatti
FBs: Lloyd Kelly & (possibly) Alberto Costa or Cambiaso
Midfield pivot: Weston McKennie alongside Khéphren Thuram
Advanced midfielders: Timothy Weah, Douglas Luiz/Manuel Locatelli, and Andrea Cambiaso as wide/attacking outlets
Forward duo: Randal Kolo Muani & Nicolás González

This setup emphasizes a solid base with McKennie and Thuram directing play, supported by dynamic flanks and a front pair offering pace and rotation.

Wydad AC (likely 4–2–3–1)

Projected XI (from Bulinews):
GK: Mehdi Benabid
Defenders: Fahd Moufti (RWB), Jamal Harkass & Boutouil (CBs), plus Bouchta (LWB)
Double pivot: Oussama Zemraoui & El Mehdi Moubarik
Attacking trio: Thembinkosi Lorch (RW), Cassius Mailula (CAM), Mohamed Rayhi (LW)
Striker: Samuel Obeng or alternative centre-forward

Wydad are expected to lean on Benabid’s distribution, a structured defensive line, and speed through their wide attackers.

Importance – Juventus vs Wydad AC

1. Group G Stakes:

• Juventus can qualify early for the knockout stage with a win.

• Wydad AC must avoid defeat to stay alive in the tournament.

2. Momentum:

• Juventus aim to maintain dominance after a 5–0 win over Al Ain.

• Wydad need to bounce back from a 2–0 loss to Manchester City.

3. Tournament Impact:

• Juventus could secure top spot before facing Man City.

• Wydad risk early elimination with a second loss.

4. Global Relevance:

• Clash between a European powerhouse and a top African side.

• Highlights the competitive diversity of the expanded Club World Cup.

5. Psychological Edge:

• Juventus can build tournament rhythm and confidence.

• Wydad under pressure to perform and prove continental pedigree.

Conclusion

The Juventus vs Wydad AC clash is a pivotal Group G encounter in the FIFA Club World Cup 2025. Juventus are in strong form and can secure progression with a second consecutive win, while Wydad AC face elimination if they lose again. With both teams bringing contrasting styles, Juventus’ structured, high-tempo attack versus Wydad’s disciplined, transitional play—the match promises intensity and tactical intrigue. The outcome will not only shape the group standings but also reflect each club’s readiness to compete on the global stage.

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