With both sides already eliminated from the ongoing FIFA Club World Cup tournament in the United States, Al Ain face off against Wydad AC, determined to end their campaign on a high note. Kick Off Nigeria editor Ayomide Oguntimehin offers insight into the match scheduled for June 26.
Match Preview: Wydad AC vs Al Ain
Participating in their third tournament, Wydad AC suffered early elimination after successive defeats to European powerhouses Juventus and Manchester City. The Moroccan side lost 2-0 to the English champions in their first group game before suffering a 4-1 loss to the Italians in their second. The 2022 CAF Champions League winners will now look to secure their first-ever win at the tournament against Al Ain on Match day 3.
Despite reaching the final in their debut appearance at the competition, Al Ain are rooted to the bottom of the standings after heavy defeats to both European sides in the group. A 5-0 loss to Juventus in their opener was followed by a 6-0 defeat to Manchester City on Sunday. A win against Wydad AC would offer some redemption after an early tournament exit.
Head-to-Head: Wydad AC vs Al Ain
This will be the first competitive meeting between the two sides. Their only previous encounter was a 3-3 draw in a friendly match in August 2015.
Recent Form: Wydad AC
Prior to the start of the tournament, the Moroccan side had only suffered one defeat since the start of the year. However, in their only previous meeting with an Asian team at the Club World Cup, Wydad lost on penalties to Al Hilal in 2022.
Recent Form: Al Ain
Al Ain have conceded 11 goals in two games at the Club World Cup—albeit against far superior opponents. The United Arab Emirates outfit were unbeaten in seven matches prior to the tournament, keeping six clean sheets in that run.
In their only previous meeting with an African team at the Club World Cup, Al Ain recorded a 3-0 victory over Tunisian side Esperance Tunis in the second round of the 2018 edition.
Player to Watch: Joshua Udoh (Al Ain)
The exciting talent Joshua Udoh came on as a late substitute in the club’s opening game against Juventus. The 17-year-old will be pushing for a start in this low-stakes encounter, hoping for a platform to showcase his abilities.
Best Odds and Betting Tips (via 1xBet)
- Away (Al Ain) Win or Draw – 1.59 (via 1xBet)
Kick Off Verdict
The UAE side are believed to have the quality and experience to trouble the Moroccans and extend their unbeaten record against African teams, following their 2018 victory over Esperance. Wydad AC’s winless streak at the Club World Cup looks likely to continue.
