Al Hilal delivered a stunning upset at the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 by defeating reigning Premier League champions Manchester City 4-3 in extra time. The Saudi side’s victory in Orlando has sent shockwaves across global football, as the underdogs knocked out one of the tournament favorites.
This high-octane Round of 16 clash saw goals, controversy, and a resilient Al Hilal team, coached by Simone Inzaghi, knock City out in the biggest shock of the tournament so far.
Controversy and Missed Chances Define First Half
City started confidently, taking the lead in the 9th minute through Bernardo Silva. However, the goal was marred by controversy as Rayan Ait-Nouri‘s assist appeared to involve a handball. Despite protest from Al Hilal and crowd fury after a stadium replay, referee Jesus Valenzuela allowed the goal to stand.
City dominated possession and chances, but Moroccan goalkeeper Yassine Bounou delivered a world-class performance, stopping close-range efforts from Gundogan, Doku, and Gvardiol.
Al Hilal Come Alive in the Second Half
After halftime, the game turned. In the 46th minute, former City player Joao Cancelo launched a cross that ultimately found Marcos Leonardo, who headed in the equalizer. Moments later, Malcolm exposed City’s high line and put Al Hilal ahead 2-1 with a brilliant solo effort.
Pep Guardiola responded with three substitutions—Rodri, Nathan Ake, and Manuel Akanji—to bring stability. It paid off as Erling Haaland leveled the score at 2-2, pouncing on a loose ball after a Bernardo corner.
Extra-Time Heroics: Marcos Leonardo Seals It
The match went to extra time, where Al Hilal once again seized control. Kalidou Koulibaly put them ahead with a superb header from a Ruben Neves corner. Phil Foden then leveled again with an acrobatic finish from a Rayan Cherki assist.
But Al Hilal were not done. In the dying minutes, Sergej Milinkovic-Savic‘s header was parried by Ederson, but Marcos Leonardo bundled home the rebound, clinching a famous 4-3 win for the Saudi club.
Reaction From Managers
Simone Inzaghi, just weeks into his role as Al Hilal coach, hailed the effort as “climbing Everest without oxygen.” He credited the players’ unity and resilience, saying, “They were simply wonderful tonight.” Read full reaction here.
Pep Guardiola praised his team’s effort but admitted they were caught open by counterattacks: “They punished us on the transitions. We had our chances, but they were clinical.”
What’s Next for Al Hilal?
Al Hilal advance to the quarter-finals where they will face Fluminense of Brazil. The winner will secure a spot in the Club World Cup semi-finals, with the dream of a historic title in reach.
For City, the defeat ends their run prematurely despite an impressive 5-2 group-stage win over Juventus. Relive City’s Juventus win here.
Final Thoughts
This match will be remembered as one of the greatest Club World Cup upsets in history. Al Hilal’s courage, strategic brilliance, and never-say-die spirit stunned a footballing powerhouse and inspired a region.
Stay updated with all FIFA Club World Cup 2025 coverage at The Morning News Informer.
