Man City vs Al-Hilal

Al‑Hilal pulled off a stunning upset, beating Manchester City 4–3 after extra time in their FIFA Club World Cup Round of 16 clash in Orlando on June 30, 2025

🏆 Match Recap

Bernardo Silva gave City an early lead (around the 9th minute), but Al‑Hilal equalized via Marcos Leonardo early in the second half.

Malcom struck to make it 2–1 for the Saudi side, before Erling Haaland restored parity at 2–2.

In extra time, Kalidou Koulibaly headed Al‑Hilal ahead before Phil Foden leveled again. The decisive blow came from Marcos Leonardo, who completed his brace with the 112th‑minute goal.

Despite dominating the group stage (including a 5–2 win over Juventus), Manchester City exited early—while Al‑Hilal advanced to face Fluminense in the quarter-finals.

🔍 Why It Matters 

This marks one of the biggest shocks in Club World Cup history, fittingly called a “showstopper” by major outlets.

It signals Al‑Hilal’s rise under Simone Inzaghi, despite lingering skepticism toward the Saudi Pro League

 🧩 Game Context & Stats

Team Group Stage Record

Manchester City Unbeaten: 3 wins (13 goals) – topped Group G

Al‑Hilal Unbeaten: draws with Real Madrid, Salzburg; beat Pachuca

Even before kick‑off, experts warned it wouldn’t be a walkover—Al‑Hilal were dubbed “not guaranteed” underdogs.

What’s Next?

Al‑Hilal moves on to play Fluminense in the quarter‑finals on July 4 in Orlando.

Manchester City, the defending FIFA Club World Cup champions, are eliminated.

Manchester City, the defending FIFA Club World Cup champions, are eliminated.

Want a breakdown of player performances, tactical analysis, or details about the next matchups? Just ask!