The draw for the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup has pitted South African coach Rulani Mokwena against his footballing idol Pep Guardiola, as Wydad Casablanca joins Manchester City in Group G of the tournament.
Mokwena, known for his tactical acumen and admiration of Guardiola’s innovative coaching style, will now lead Wydad in what promises to be an entertaining encounter against the reigning European champions.
The expanded Club World Cup, featuring 32 teams, presents a massive challenge for Wydad Casablanca, with Group G also including Italian giants Juventus and UAE champions Al Ain.
Mokwena, who has previously described Guardiola as an “incredible coach” and a key inspiration for his own approach, will now have the opportunity to test his tactical philosophies against one of the best in the game.
Speaking about Guardiola in a 2023 interview with BBC Sport Africa, Mokwena said, “Pep is someone that I follow very closely. I’ve got huge admiration for him. He is an incredible football coach, so successful.”
Group G has been labeled as one of the most competitive in the tournament. Manchester City, under Guardiola, comes in as heavy favorites, bringing a squad packed with world-class talent.
Juventus, with its storied history and tactical strength, also poses a formidable challenge. Al Ain, representing the UAE, rounds out the group, adding regional pride to the mix.
For Mokwena and Wydad, the tournament offers an opportunity to not only compete with some of the world’s best teams but also to elevate the status of African football on the international stage.
Wydad’s inclusion in such a high-profile group ensures the spotlight will be on their performances as they aim to defy the odds.
The FIFA Club World Cup 2025 features an expanded format with eight groups of four teams.
