In a stunning upset, Saudi Arabian powerhouse Al-Hilal defeated reigning champions Manchester City 4-3 in extra time during their FIFA Club World Cup last-16 clash.
The dramatic encounter on Tuesday, July 1, 2025, saw City’s title defense crumble due to a “haphazard defensive display.”
City initially took the lead in the 9th minute through Bernardo Silva.
However, Al-Hilal roared back in the second half, with Marcos Leonardo equalizing just after the restart and Malcom putting them ahead in the 52nd minute. Erling Haaland quickly leveled for City in the 55th.
The thrilling match extended into extra time, where Kalidou Koulibaly put Al-Hilal ahead in the 94th minute.
Phil Foden responded for City in the 104th, but Marcos Leonardo proved to be the hero, securing Al-Hilal’s historic 4-3 victory with his second goal of the night in the 112th minute.
Al-Hilal’s goalkeeper Bono was instrumental, making 10 crucial saves.
This monumental win sends Al-Hilal to the quarter-finals against Fluminense, while Manchester City’s Club World Cup journey ends unexpectedly early.
