Manchester City defeated Juventus 5-2 to top Group G in the FIFA Club World Cup 2025, with Haaland scoring his 300th goal.
A powerful display in Orlando.
Manchester City vs Juventus: A Commanding 5-2 Victory at the FIFA Club World Cup 2025
Manchester City delivered a sensational performance in Orlando, defeating Juventus 5-2 to top Group G of the FIFA Club World Cup 2025. In what was billed as a group decider, City not only claimed the top spot but also became the only team in the tournament to win all three of their group stage matches.
A Game of High Stakes
Both sides had already secured progression to the knockout stages, but the match held on June 26, 2025, at Camping World Stadium, had one major incentive—Group G supremacy. Juventus entered with a slight advantage on goal difference, but City needed just a win to leapfrog them.
City started aggressively, with Bernardo Silva nearly breaking the deadlock before Jeremy Doku curled in the opener in the 9th minute. His standout performance earned him Player of the Match honours.
Quick Reactions and First-Half Drama
Juventus hit back swiftly through Teun Koopmeiners after a rare lapse from Ederson, levelling things in the 11th minute. But City’s relentless pressure paid off again in the 26th, when a low cross from Matheus Nunes forced an own goal from Pierre Kalulu.
Despite the Florida heat and sudden downpour, City maintained tempo and control, stretching Juventus’ defense repeatedly before halftime.
Second Half Surge: Haaland’s Historic Goal
The second half saw Pep Guardiola introduce Erling Haaland, who didn’t disappoint. In the 52nd minute, he tapped in a close-range goal—his 300th career goal, after a flowing move involving Tijjani Reijnders and Nunes.
Soon after, Phil Foden extended the lead with an easy finish in the 69th, assisted by Savinho. The Brazilian then delivered a stunning strike himself in the 75th minute, smashing a half-cleared ball in off the bar to make it 5-1.
Juventus salvaged some pride in the 84th minute, when Dusan Vlahovic capitalized on a defensive lapse to score. But by then, the match was well beyond their reach.
Rodri’s Return and City’s Midfield Mastery
One of the highlights of the match was the return of Rodri, making his first start in nine months after a knee injury. His composure in midfield added control and stability. Manager Pep Guardiola praised Rodri as “one of the best players in the world,” while fans responded with an enthusiastic reception.
Guardiola was equally delighted with the team’s overall performance, calling it a refreshing change after a “disastrous campaign” earlier in the year. He added, “The players felt again what it was like to be a good team.”
Juventus manager Igor Tudor admitted City’s superiority, saying, “They simply have much better players.”
What Lies Ahead for Manchester City
With the win, Manchester City now advances to face Al Hilal in the Round of 16 on July 1, 2025. This sets up the possibility of a deep tournament run, although they’ll be on the same side of the draw as Chelsea, eliminating the chance of an all-English final.
Elsewhere, Real Madrid, Al Ain, and Al Hilal also advanced. The knockout rounds are heating up—and City’s dominant display marks them as one of the favorites.