Islamabad, June 23, 2025: Manchester City vs Al-Ain Club World Cup 2025 clash ended in a dominating 6-0 win for the English side, securing a place in the knockout stages alongside Juventus. The reigning Premier League champions showcased their depth and power in Group G with a stellar performance in Orlando.
German midfielder Ilkay Gundogan was the star of the match, netting two clinical goals in the 9th and 73rd minutes. His opener—a clever chipped cross—caught Al-Ain goalkeeper Khalid Eisa off guard, setting the tone for the night.
City’s teenage sensation Claudio Etcheverri impressed on his first start, curling a sublime free-kick into the net to double the lead by the 27th minute. Moments later, Erling Haaland had multiple chances before finally converting a stoppage-time penalty, awarded via VAR after a foul on Manuel Akanji.
Despite Al-Ain showing more intent than their earlier 5-0 loss to Juventus, they struggled against Pep Guardiola’s fully rotated squad. City made 11 changes, underlining their bench strength without compromising quality.
In the final quarter, substitutes Oscar Bobb and Rayan Cherki added the finishing touches with late goals—Bobb cutting inside to beat Eisa near post, and Cherki delivering a composed finish from the edge of the box.
The 6-0 result puts Manchester City level on goal difference with Juventus, who also won their match against Wydad Casablanca 4-1. The group decider between Juventus vs Manchester City is set for Thursday, promising a top-tier showdown for Group G supremacy.
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Gundogan summed up the match, stating, “It was a really good performance. The result speaks for itself. Fully deserved.”
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