Wydad Casablanca take on Al Ain this Thursday in their final group match of the Club World Cup, with kick‑off scheduled for 8 pm GMT in Morocco (3 pm local time in Washington, DC). The match will be free to watch on DAZN and on MBC channels across the Middle East.
Broadcast Details and Viewing Times
- Date: Thursday, 26 June 2025
- Venue: Audi Field, Washington, DC (GMT‑4)
- Kick-off: 3 pm (local Washington); 8 pm (Morocco); 9 pm (France)
- Broadcast: DAZN (free streaming) and MBC channels in the Gulf region
A Fight for Financial Reward and Pride
Though both Wydad and Al Ain are already eliminated from progressing in Group G—Wydad lost 2–0 to Manchester City and 4–1 to Juventus, while Al Ain suffered 5–0 and 6–0 defeats—the match remains meaningful. FIFA grants a $2 million prize for a final group-stage win ($1 million for a draw), providing both sides with incentive to finish on a high note.
Team News and Line-up Updates
Wydad’s preparations have been disrupted by several setbacks:
- Coach Mohamed Amine Benhachem remains hospitalised following a road accident on Monday. Assistant coaches Ibrahim Nekkach or Abdeslam Ouarrad are expected to take charge at the touchline.
- Abdelmounaim Boutouil is absent from the squad for personal reasons, according to Moroccan media.
- New signing Hamza El Hannouri is sidelined through injury.
These absences leave Wydad short on options down the flanks and in central defence. Up front, Cassius Mailula and Samuel Obeng, both quiet in earlier matches, will be tasked with providing attacking impetus.
Mailula missed several opportunities on debut and Obeng was substituted midway through the Juventus game after a lacklustre opening.
Tactical Considerations
Wydad are expected to employ a more open and attacking formation than in previous matches, aiming to entertain and secure the financial bonus at stake. With nothing to lose, they may push forward from the outset, relying on quick transitions and width.
Al Ain, having conceded 11 goals in two games, must also balance between defence and risk-taking. A positive result would boost confidence and morale ahead of their return home.
Broader Significance
For Wydad, cashing in on their final fixture would ease financial pressure and raise spirits after a disappointing group campaign. It also offers a chance for fringe players to impress on a global stage. Al Ain, meanwhile, seek to end the tournament with dignity and regain pride after heavy defeats.
While the result won’t alter the tournament outcome, it will shape perceptions of both clubs. Wydad’s performance could signal progress for African football, while Al Ain will aim to reassert their status as one of the UAE’s best.
What Fans Should Watch For
- Attacking intent: Both sides should play with freedom, aiming to entertain and score.
- Individual performances: Mailula and Obeng have a platform to reclaim form; defenders must respond positively under pressure.
- Substitute impact: With absentees and recent form issues, players from the bench may be crucial.
Final Thoughts
Despite having no pathway to the next round, this fixture offers more than just a match—it’s a chance for both teams to secure a significant financial reward, for Wydad to restore pride, and for Al Ain to finish with dignity. Viewers tuning in deserve an honest, open contest with plenty of action and passion on show.
In the sun we grind 💪☀️#DimaWydad pic.twitter.com/TpgFZPG3s9
— Wydad Athletic Club (@WACofficiel) June 25, 2025
