Al Hilal Stuns Manchester City with 4-3 Extra-Time Victory in Club World Cup Thriller


In a dramatic and unexpected twist at the FIFA Club World Cup, Saudi Arabian club Al Hilal delivered a stunning blow to reigning English and European champions Manchester City, knocking them out with a 4-3 victory after extra time on Monday. The match, held at a packed stadium in Jeddah, marked the most significant upset of the tournament so far and a defining moment in Al Hilal’s footballing history.


The game started with Manchester City asserting early dominance, controlling possession and creating a flurry of chances. Their efforts paid off in the 18th minute when Bernardo Silva slotted in a well-placed shot to give City a 1-0 lead. However, Al Hilal quickly responded through a clinical counterattack finished by Malcom, leveling the score before halftime.

The second half turned into a rollercoaster of momentum shifts. Erling Haaland restored City’s lead in the 55th minute with a trademark strike, but Al Hilal refused to be subdued. Former Porto striker Moussa Marega brought the Saudi side back into contention with a powerful goal in the 67th minute. As tensions rose, a lapse in City’s defense allowed Al Hilal to seize the lead through a headed goal by Salem Al-Dawsari, sending the home crowd into a frenzy.


With elimination staring them in the face, Manchester City fought back. In the 89th minute, Kevin De Bruyne curled in a sublime free kick to make it 3-3, forcing extra time. Yet, just when it seemed the English champions might regain control, Al Hilal struck again. Substitute Abdullah Al-Hamdan scored in the 112th minute, capitalizing on a rare mistake by City’s backline.

Despite desperate attempts by City to find another equalizer, Al Hilal held firm, securing a famous victory that will echo across the footballing world. The result marks a watershed moment not only for Al Hilal but also for Asian club football, as it underscores the growing competitiveness of non-European sides in the global arena.

Manchester City’s unexpected exit leaves fans and analysts questioning their preparation and approach, while Al Hilal advances to the next stage with confidence and momentum.

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