Juventus have moved within touching distance of the FIFA Club World Cup knockout stage after a dominant 4-1 win over Wydad AC at Lincoln Financial Field.
A standout performance from Kenan Yıldız, who netted twice, has left the Moroccan champions staring at a likely group-stage exit.
Having fallen behind early in their 2-0 loss to Manchester City, Wydad entered their second Group G match determined to avoid another sluggish start.
But any hopes of early control quickly unraveled thanks to the brilliance of Yıldız.
The Turkish youngster orchestrated the game’s opening moments, breaking the deadlock after a tidy one-two with Khephren Thuram. His effort, slightly deflected, crept in at the near post.
He wasn’t done yet. Barely minutes later, Yıldız unleashed a stunning shot from just outside the box, finding the top corner with precision and power, scoring for the second consecutive game.
Wydad, to their credit, refused to fold. Thembinkosi Lorch gave the Moroccans a glimmer of hope, showing poise as he lifted the ball over Juventus goalkeeper Michele Di Gregorio.
The goal came from a perfectly weighted through ball by Nordin Amrabat and brought Wydad back into the contest.
Despite leading 2-1 at halftime, Juventus looked intent on putting the game beyond doubt. Andrea Cambiaso rattled the woodwork from a corner delivery, and Randal Kolo Muani came close moments later, narrowly missing the far post after connecting with Lloyd Kelly’s driven cross.
Eventually, the in-form Yıldız restored Juventus’ two-goal lead. Pouncing on a clever ball from Kolo Muani, he showed maturity beyond his years, cutting inside onto his right foot before slotting into the far corner with composure.
Juventus added a fourth in stoppage time. Dusan Vlahovic was brought down in the box and confidently converted the resulting penalty to seal a comprehensive victory that pushes the Bianconeri to the top of Group G.
With six points from two matches, Juventus will book a place in the last 16 if Al Ain fail to defeat Manchester City. Meanwhile, Wydad’s hopes now hinge on a surprise result from the Emirati club.
Wydad must now hope Al Ain can pull off a shock win to keep their slim hopes of progression alive.