Al Hilal, the champions of the Saudi Pro League, achieved a surprising victory over Manchester City, the holders of the Club World Cup and European giants, in a thrilling match that went into extra time. The match, held in Orlando, ended with a score of 4-3 in favor of Al Hilal, marking one of the biggest upsets in the football tournament.
After a 2-2 draw at the end of full-time, Al Hilal secured the win with Marcos Leonardo scoring the decisive goal in extra time, ensuring their advance to the quarterfinals where they will face Brazilian club Fluminense. This victory guarantees the presence of a non-European team in the last four.
The game was marked by early controversy as City took the lead through Bernardo Silva, with Al Hilal players objecting on grounds of handball. Despite City having numerous chances, including missed opportunities from Jeremy Doku and Bernardo, Moroccan goalkeeper Yassine Bounou’s exceptional performance kept the score in Al Hilal’s favor.
Al Hilal capitalized on their counter-attacking strategy, with Joao Cancelo and Malcolm playing key roles in their two goals. City’s Erling Haaland and Phil Foden also shone, with the latter scoring a goal of quality. However, City’s inability to manage transitions and control the ball led to their downfall.
The match also had an emotional aspect, as Marcos Leonardo dedicated his goals to his mother who had recently been in the ICU. City’s Bernardo Silva acknowledged the team’s inability to control the transitions, which ultimately contributed to their defeat.
