Club World Cup Thriller: Al Hilal Stun Man City 4–3 in Seven-Goal Classic
In a jaw-dropping upset at the Club World Cup, Saudi giants Al Hilal edged out English Premier League champions Manchester City in a pulsating 4–3 victory after extra time. The second-round clash, played at the Camping World Arena in Orlando, Florida, turned into one of the tournament’s most unforgettable encounters.
The defeat means Pep Guardiola’s side are crashing out earlier than expected, while Al Hilal advance to face Brazilian side Fluminense in Friday’s quarter-final.
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⚽ First-Half Promise, Second-Half Fireworks
Manchester City struck first blood in the 9th minute through Bernardo Silva, who pounced on a loose ball to give the English side a 1–0 lead. However, the real action unfolded after the break.
Just after halftime, Marcos Leonardo brought Al Hilal level with a clinical finish. Minutes later, Malcom made it 2–1 following a stunning assist from former City fullback João Cancelo, whose outside-foot trivela sliced through the City midfield.
Erling Haaland levelled things at 2–2, bundling home a scrambled effort as City responded swiftly. But Al Hilal weren’t done.
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🏃♂️ Extra Time, Extra Drama
The match went into extra time tied 2–2. Within minutes, Kalidou Koulibaly powered home a header to restore Al Hilal’s lead from a corner. City answered yet again—this time through Phil Foden, who finished a brilliant run and pass from new signing Rayan Cherki to make it 3–3.
But the decisive moment came in the 112th minute. City goalkeeper Ederson failed to hold a powerful header from Sergej Milinković-Savić, and Leonardo was perfectly placed to slot home the rebound—his second of the night and the match-winner.
🗣️ What Next?
For City, the loss is a major disappointment in a competition they were tipped to dominate. Meanwhile, Al Hilal’s giant-killing performance has electrified the Club World Cup and raised fresh expectations ahead of their next test against Fluminense.
From start to finish, this was a game packed with goals, drama, and world-class football—one that will live long in the memory of fans across the globe.