Wydad Casablanca’s preparations for their final match at the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup have been disrupted by the sudden hospitalisation of head coach Mohamed Amine Benhachem following a road accident in the United States.
The incident occurred on Monday in Washington D.C., where the Moroccan club is based during the tournament.
Benhachem was travelling with three senior members of the Wydad staff when their vehicle was involved in a collision.
Also in the car were general manager Youssef Debbagh, team doctor Abdelrazzaq Hifti, and a technical staff member identified only as Ali.
All four were immediately taken to Suburban Hospital in Maryland for medical evaluation and treatment. While both Debbagh and Hifti were discharged later that evening and rejoined the club’s delegation, Benhachem remained under medical observation overnight. He was released on Tuesday morning and is currently recovering.
The timing of the incident has added further pressure on Wydad Casablanca as they prepare for their final group stage fixture against Al-Ain of the United Arab Emirates on Thursday at 21:00 local time.
Though the Moroccan side has already been mathematically eliminated from the competition—having suffered defeats to Manchester City (0-2) and Juventus (1-4)—the match holds symbolic significance for the team and its supporters.
Despite the team’s exit from the tournament, Wydad are determined to end their campaign on a positive note. Thursday’s fixture is not just a matter of pride, but an emotional rallying point for players and staff alike, who are eager to dedicate the performance to their absent coach.
In an official statement, the club confirmed that it is “closely monitoring the health and recovery” of Benhachem and expressed hope that he may be able to return to the sidelines in time for the final match.
However, no formal confirmation has been given on whether the coach will be fit enough to lead the team from the bench.
In his absence, the rest of the coaching staff have taken charge of preparations, working to maintain morale and focus in what the club described as a “challenging emotional environment.”
Wydad’s players, many of whom share a strong bond with Benhachem, are said to be motivated by a desire to deliver a performance in tribute to their coach’s resilience and leadership.
As one of Africa’s most decorated football clubs, Wydad Casablanca is known for its strong character and passionate following.
While results in this edition of the Club World Cup have not gone in their favour, the squad is determined to leave a mark of dignity and honour in their final outing on the global stage.
Thursday night’s encounter with Al-Ain will be more than a dead rubber—it will be a test of spirit, a tribute to their coach, and a moment of solidarity for a club seeking to turn adversity into strength.
Whether or not Benhachem is present on the touchline, his influence is expected to be felt throughout the team’s performance.
✅ Quick update:
Wydad head coach Mohamed Amine Benhachem has been discharged from the hospital and is now back with the team at their hotel base. ❤️🤍
Refreshing and positive news! 🙏🔴#ClubWorldCupwithMicky#FIFACWC #DimaWydad pic.twitter.com/qg6ub8lMoc
— Micky Jnr (@MickyJnr__) June 24, 2025
