PHILADELPHIA — Manchester City kicked off their Club World Cup campaign with a 2-0 win over Wydad Casablanca, as Phil Foden and Jeremy Doku struck in the first half. Manager Pep Guardiola praised debutants Tijjani Reijnders and Rayan Cherki, who joined from AC Milan and Lyon respectively.

Reijnders played the full match in tough heat, while Cherki, brought in to fill the gap left by Kevin De Bruyne, impressed before being subbed after an hour. Guardiola also handed a rare start to young defender Vitor Reis and welcomed back Nathan Ake after months out.

City’s usual stars — Haaland, Bernardo, Dias, Gvardiol, and Gundogan — started on the bench, with Guardiola hinting at a full squad rotation for the next match against Al Ain. Meanwhile, Rico Lewis will miss that game after being sent off late on.

Foden, who scored and assisted, said he’s determined to bounce back after a tough season: “I wanted to start strong, and I’m happy to help the team win. With the new signings, we’re ready to go again and chase trophies.”