Al Hilal Stuns Manchester City in Historic Club World Cup Thriller
You wouldn’t believe what just happened at the Club World Cup — Manchester City, the reigning giants of European football, have been knocked out in the round of 16 by Saudi Arabia’s Al Hilal in a jaw-dropping 4-3 extra-time classic. This wasn’t just a win — this was a statement from a team many underestimated.
From the very first whistle, this match had chaos, controversy, and quality. City looked to be in control early on when Bernardo Silva tapped in an opening goal, but the drama exploded immediately. Al Hilal’s players refused to kick off, furious that the ball appeared to strike an arm in the build-up. For nearly four minutes, they protested until the referee, amid boos and confusion, stood firm. The goal stood, but the fire had been lit.
Then came a second half that felt like a whirlwind. Just 41 seconds after the break, Marcos Leonardo equalised thanks to some brilliant work from Malcom. Moments later, Malcom — yes, that Malcom from his brief Barcelona days — ran from halfway and finished coolly to give Al Hilal a shock 2-1 lead. City's response? Erling Haaland smashed in a quick equaliser. And yet, the seesaw continued.
Also Read:- Nintendo Switch Price Hike Coming to Canada Ahead of Switch 2 Push
- Al-Hilal Stun Manchester City in Epic Club World Cup Clash
Ali Lajami’s goal-line clearance kept Haaland from a late winner, and extra time was required. That’s when the ex-Premier League stars took center stage. Ruben Neves whipped in a perfect corner, and Kalidou Koulibaly rose to power it home. Al Hilal were ahead again. But City weren’t done — Phil Foden, back in form and looking sharp, volleyed in a gorgeous goal to make it 3-3.
Then came the final blow: in the 112th minute, Ederson made a stunning save, but the rebound fell to Leonardo, who bundled it in from close range. 4-3. Game over. Al Hilal — a team built with purpose, strategy, and some serious investment from Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund — had done the unthinkable.
It’s not just the result that’s shocking. This is a watershed moment for Saudi football. With the World Cup set to come to their shores in 2034 and the country pumping billions into global football, this win is symbolic. Players like Neves, Koulibaly, Malcom, and Bounou — all former European mainstays — played key roles and showed that this is no retirement league. This is a competitive, hungry team with real ambition.
For City, it’s a financial and sporting blow. They miss out on an expected $13.7 million payout and a clear shot at silverware. But more than that, it's a reality check. Even Pep Guardiola admitted they were up against serious quality. And despite standout moments from Foden and Haaland, they couldn’t outmatch Al Hilal’s hunger, energy, and execution.
This wasn’t just an upset — it was a redefining moment for the Club World Cup and for the sport’s shifting balance of power. And as Al Hilal prepares to face Fluminense in the quarter-finals, the world is watching with newfound respect.
Read More:
0 Comments