How Did Manchester City Cruise Past Juventus to Lead Group G?

Orlando, June 27 (NationPress) Manchester City has made history by becoming the sole team to conclude the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 group stage with an impeccable record, securing a convincing 5-2 triumph over Juventus FC.

City now leads the tournament in scoring with a total of 13 goals, surpassing FC Bayern München, after delivering a masterful performance at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, thus positioning themselves for a Round of 16 showdown against the Group H runners-up.

Throughout the match, City showcased dominant control, marking just their second victory in eight encounters against the famed Italian side.

The scoring commenced in the ninth minute, as new recruit Rayan Ait-Nouri intercepted the ball just outside the Juventus box, assisting Jeremy Doku, who skillfully cut inside and struck the ball into the far corner, as reported by Xinhua.

However, City's lead was short-lived, as just two minutes later, goalkeeper Ederson made an errant pass to Teun Koopmeiners, who capitalized with a left-footed equalizer.

In a significant return, Rodri Hernandez made his first start since a serious knee injury in September 2024, fortifying City's midfield. The Premier League champions regained the lead in the 26th minute due to a defensive lapse from Juventus. Matheus Nunes created space on the right and delivered a low cross that Pierre Kalulu, under no pressure, inadvertently redirected into his own net.

City maintained their dominance throughout the first half, with Tijjani Reijnders displaying vigor in midfield, while Ait-Nouri forced a notable save just before a heavy storm rolled in.

At halftime, Erling Haaland replaced Omar Marmoush and quickly extended City's lead in the 52nd minute. Despite a mis-hit, Haaland converted a well-coordinated play involving Nunes and Reijnders.

Rodri exited in the 66th minute, shortly before Ederson redeemed himself with a brilliant save against Dusan Vlahovic.

Phil Foden made it 4-1 just three minutes after entering the match, tapping in after a powerful run by Haaland, who set up Savinho. The Brazilian outmaneuvered goalkeeper Michele Di Gregorio before selflessly assisting Foden.

Savinho capped the scoring at 5-1 in the 75th minute with a stunning long-range effort after Juventus failed to clear a corner.

Vlahovic managed to pull one back for Juventus in the 84th minute, skillfully beating the offside trap and finishing neatly.

In other news, Al Ain FC concluded their FIFA Club World Cup 2025 journey on a positive note, rallying from behind to defeat Wydad AC 2-1 in Washington, D.C.