In a shocking turn of events at the Club World Cup in Orlando, Saudi Arabian side Al-Hilal eliminated European champions Manchester City in a dramatic 4–3 victory after extra time.
City took the lead early on through Bernardo Silva in the ninth minute, though Al-Hilal players protested a possible handball in the buildup — protests that were dismissed after a VAR check. Early in the second half, Al-Hilal found their rhythm. Marcos Leonardo equalised before Malcom struck to put them ahead, sending their fans into wild celebrations.
City, determined not to bow out so easily, responded quickly. Erling Haaland netted a header to make it 2–2, pushing the match into extra time. The Saudis regained the lead in the 94th minute through Kalidou Koulibaly’s header. Yet again, City fought back as Phil Foden, celebrating his 100th goal for the club, volleyed in a spectacular equaliser in the 104th minute.
The deciding blow came in the 112th minute when Marcos Leonardo pounced on a rebound from goalkeeper Ederson to score his second and secure a historic win for Al-Hilal.
Despite enjoying 71% possession and dominating the attacking play, City struggled to convert their chances and were repeatedly frustrated by Al-Hilal’s resolute defending and goalkeeper Yassine Bounou’s crucial saves. Manager Pep Guardiola faced criticism for delaying Foden’s introduction, a decision many felt contributed to the shocking defeat.
The loss also meant City missed out on a potential £9.6 million prize, adding to a disappointing season in which they lost the Premier League title and the FA Cup final. Meanwhile, Al-Hilal’s victory marked a milestone for Saudi football and signaled a rising competitiveness on the global stage.
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