The Moroccan giants, who lifted the TotalEnergies Confederation of African Football Champions League trophy in 2021/22, will go up against three heavyweight opponents, Premier League champions Manchester City, Italian side Juventus, and United Arab Emirates’ Al Ain, in what promises to be a high-stakes group stage.

Although Wydad boast a strong reputation in African football, their recent domestic campaign has been less convincing. The team finished third in the 2024/25 Botola Pro 1, with a number of inconsistent performances raising questions about their readiness for the global challenge ahead.

Even so, head coach Mohamed Amine Benhachem is refusing to be discouraged. He believes the unpredictable nature of tournament football could work in his team’s favour. “We know what we’re up against, but football is never short of surprises,” he said.

Wydad’s Club World Cup journey begins on Wednesday, June 18, with a clash against Manchester City. That will be followed by a meeting with Juventus on Sunday, June 22, before rounding off the group stage against Al Ain on Thursday, June 26.

With their pedigree on the continent and passionate support behind them, Wydad will be hoping to defy the odds and make a lasting impression on football’s biggest club stage.

--ChannelAfrica--