On Tuesday, Manchester City showcased their dominance with a 3-0 triumph over Urawa Red Diamonds at the King Abdullah Sports City stadium, securing a spot in the Club World Cup final against Brazilian side Fluminense.
European champions City faced resistance from the well-organized Japanese side in the first half, but they broke the deadlock with a stoppage-time own goal by Marius Hoibraten. Mateo Kovacic extended the lead to 2-0 in the 52nd minute, marking his first goal since joining City from Chelsea. A deflected shot from Bernardo Silva moments later allowed City to comfortably control the rest of the game.
Pep Guardiola’s City, who have had some challenges in recent domestic competitions, are aiming to join the ranks of Manchester United, Liverpool, and Chelsea as the fourth English club to win the Club World Cup. They enter the final on Friday as strong favorites against Fluminense, who secured their place by defeating Al-Ahly 2-0 on Monday.
Guardiola emphasized the significance of the final, stating, “To be in this final, you have to do incredible things like win the Champions League. This may be the only time we play this in our lifetime.”
Despite missing Erling Haaland and making adjustments after a draw with Crystal Palace, City’s superiority was evident against the J1 League side, which packed their defense and midfield. The Diamonds’ game plan held City at bay initially, but an own goal by Hoibraten just before halftime shifted the momentum.
The second half saw more adventure from Urawa Red Diamonds, but it played into City’s hands. Kovacic’s impressive solo effort and Bernardo Silva’s deflected shot secured City’s victory and a place in the final.
City, ensuring their first clean sheet since Nov. 7, will confront Fluminense in the final, while Urawa Red Diamonds will face Al-Ahly in the third-placed playoff on Friday.
