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July 1, 2025

Al Hilal stun Manchester City 4–3 in extra time to reach Club World Cup quarter-finals

Al Hilal stun Manchester City 4–3 in extra time to reach Club World Cup quarter-finals
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Saudi giants Al Hilal shocked the football world by eliminating Manchester City 4–3 in extra time during a high-drama round-of-16 clash in the FIFA Club World Cup at Orlando’s Camping World Stadium. The reigning Premier League champions are sent packing in a result few expected.

Bernardo Silva opened the scoring early for City in the 9th minute. Immediately after halftime, Marcos Leonardo equalised, followed swiftly by a counterattack goal from Malcom, putting Al Hilal ahead.

Once again, the match was forced into an extended period due to Erling Haaland’s game. With Kalidou Koulibaly giving Al Hilal the lead with a powerful header in extra time. Phil Foden then brought City back on terms. The decisive moment came in the 112th minute when Marcos Leonardo’s next strike sent Al Hilal through.

Yassine Bounou, the Al Hilal goalkeeper, played strongly, pulling off several critical saves, including some from Haaland. Under coach Simone Inzaghi’s guidance, the Saudi side executed a disciplined tactical plan. It exploited the City’s high defensive line and capitalised on the humidity and counter-attacking spaces.

  • Al Hilal will now face Brazil’s Fluminense in the next round. Their victory marked a milestone for Middle Eastern clubs at a global level..
     
  • Manchester City exit early, taking away £37.8 million in prize money but no trophy—Pep Guardiola’s side will instead refocus on Premier League and Champions League ambitions.

This result ranks among the Club World Cup’s biggest shocks. It highlights Saudi clubs’ rise and questions European dominance in global competitions. For Al Hilal, it’s a historic triumph; for Manchester City, a reminder that no title is guaranteed—even against so-called “lesser” teams.


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