- Fixture: Wydad Casablanca vs Al Ain
- Date: Thursday, June 26, 2025
- Venue: Audi Field, Washington, DC, United States
- Competition: FIFA Club World Cup 2025, Group Stage
Match Preview
With both Wydad Casablanca and Al Ain already eliminated from the FIFA Club World Cup, this final group stage match is all about pride and finishing on a high note. Both sides have endured a tough campaign, losing their opening two matches and conceding heavily against European opposition. For Wydad, defeats to Manchester City (0-2) and Juventus (1-3) exposed their limitations at this level, while Al Ain’s losses to Juventus (0-5) and Manchester City (1-2) highlighted defensive vulnerabilities and a lack of cutting edge up front.
Despite the disappointment, both teams will be eager to avoid finishing bottom of the group and to give their supporters something to cheer about. Wydad’s recent form has been inconsistent, carrying over from a domestic season that ended with a third-place finish in Morocco’s Botola Pro. Their attack, led by Mohamed Rayhi and Cassius Mailula, has shown flashes of promise but struggled to convert chances against elite opposition. Al Ain, meanwhile, have found the step up in class difficult, with their defensive line breached seven times in two games and their attack unable to make a significant impact.
Neither side is dealing with major injury or suspension concerns, so both coaches are expected to field strong lineups in search of a morale-boosting win. For Wydad, the focus will be on finally turning possession into goals, with Rayhi and Mailula likely to lead the line. Al Ain will look to Kodjo Fo-Doh Laba and Soufiane Rahimi to provide a spark, while veteran goalkeeper Rui Patrício aims to marshal a defense that has been under siege throughout the tournament.
While there may be no progression at stake, expect an open, entertaining game as both teams play with freedom and look to end their Club World Cup journeys on a positive note. The pressure is off, which could lead to more attacking football and a showcase of individual talent from both sides.
Key Players to Watch
- Wydad Casablanca:
- Mohamed Rayhi – Still searching for his first goal of the tournament, he’ll be eager to make an impact.
- Cassius Mailula – Brings pace and movement, offering hope for a more dynamic attack.
- Mehdi Benabid – The goalkeeper will want to finish on a high after two challenging games.
- Al Ain:
- Kodjo Fo-Doh Laba – Remains Al Ain’s best chance for a goal and will be keen to get on the scoresheet.
- Soufiane Rahimi – Creative and unpredictable, capable of unlocking Wydad’s defense.
- Rui Patrício – The experienced keeper will look to restore some pride with a strong performance.
Prediction
With both teams already out, expect a more open and attacking contest than in their previous matches. Wydad’s attacking options may just give them the edge, but Al Ain’s determination to avoid finishing bottom should not be underestimated. A high-scoring draw is a real possibility, but Wydad could edge it if they find their finishing touch.
Predicted Score: Wydad Casablanca 2-1 Al Ain
Betting Markets & Odds
| Market | Selection | Odds (Fractional) | Bet Now |
|---|---|---|---|
| Match Result | Wydad Casablanca | 6/5 | Bet Now |
| Match Result | Draw | 12/5 | Bet Now |
| Match Result | Al Ain | 21/10 | Bet Now |
| Both Teams to Score | Yes | 4/6 | Bet Now |
| Over 2.5 Goals | Yes | 10/11 | Bet Now |
| First Goalscorer | Mohamed Rayhi | 9/2 | Bet Now |
| Anytime Goalscorer | Kodjo Fo-Doh Laba | 2/1 | Bet Now |
Odds are indicative and may vary. Please check the linked site for the latest prices.
With nothing left to lose, expect both teams to go for broke and provide an entertaining finale to their Club World Cup campaigns1.
