Manchester City 3-4 Al Hilal: Saudi Side Stun European Giants in Club World Cup Classic

In one of the most thrilling matches of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup so far, Saudi Arabian powerhouse Al Hilal pulled off a remarkable 4-3 victory over Manchester City after extra time in the Round of 16 on July 1 at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida.

Pep Guardiola’s side looked in control early on, with Bernardo Silva opening the scoring in the 9th minute following a fluid City build-up. But the game turned dramatically in the second half as Al Hilal roared back with a mix of clinical finishing and tactical discipline.

Marcos Leonardo drew the Saudi side level before Malcom gave them a 2-1 lead. City showed their resilience with Erling Haaland pulling them level, sending the tie into extra time.

The additional period delivered more drama. Kalidou Koulibaly put Al Hilal ahead again with a powerful header, only for Phil Foden to respond quickly and make it 3-3. But with just eight minutes to go, Leonardo struck again, curling home his second of the night to complete a stunning brace and send the underdogs through.

Despite controlling large portions of possession, Manchester City were punished for defensive lapses and an inability to contain Al Hilal on the break. The result marks a rare early exit for Guardiola’s side and adds to a growing sense of frustration after a season of near-misses.

Al Hilal now move on to face Brazilian champions Fluminense in the quarter-finals, having already taken down one European giant. Their statement win over the English champions serves notice to the rest of the field: this is a team capable of going all the way.