Moufi targets Juventus scalp after Wydad’s fearless display against Man City
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Fahd Moufi says Wydad AC have nothing to be ashamed of after pushing Manchester City before slipping to a 2-0 loss in their Club World Cup opener – and insists the Moroccan giants can take that fighting spirit into Saturday’s showdown with Juventus.
The right-back, who was tireless down the flank in Orlando, admitted Pep Guardiola’s side merited the result but believes Wydad’s disciplined display showed they belong on football’s biggest stage.
“We did a good job against a team as big as Manchester City, despite the defeat,” Moufi told reporters.
“I believe we represented Morocco and the Wydad fans well in this match.
"We must build on this effort by looking for a positive result against Juventus in the next match."
City struck early through Phil Foden and wrapped up the points when Jérémy Doku pounced just before half-time, yet Wydad carved out several first-half openings of their own. Cassius Mailula twice tested Ederson, while Ayoub Zamrouai and Thembinkosi Lorch both went close to an equaliser.
Moufi, 27, praised his team-mates for refusing to fold once they fell behind.
“Everyone ran for each other,” he said. “When you face players like Foden and Doku you must stay compact and brave. We did that for long spells and created chances.”
The Casablanca club now have little margin for error in Group G. Victory over Juventus – who meet UAE champions Al Ain in the late game – would haul Wydad back into quarter-final contention.
“We recover, we learn and we go again,” Moufi added. “Juventus are another massive name, but City showed us the level. If we match that intensity, we can surprise them.”
Wydad are carrying continental hopes after South Africa’s Mamelodi Sundowns opened the tournament with a win in Group F.
