Al Hilal stunned European champions Manchester City in a pulsating 4-3 victory to book their place in the FIFA Club World Cup quarter-finals on Tuesday (IST). In a match brimming with drama, momentum swung wildly before Marcos Leonardo struck late in extra time to deliver a seismic upset at the Camping World Stadium in Orlando.
City took an early lead through Bernardo Silva, who pounced on a loose ball in the ninth minute. The Premier League side dominated large stretches of the first half, and only a superb save from a grounded Yassine Bounou denied Savinho from doubling the advantage.
However, the second half burst into life with two quick-fire goals from Al Hilal. Marcos Leonardo netted the equaliser just after the restart, followed moments later by Malcom, who coolly slotted home to put the Saudi side ahead. But the lead lasted only briefly, as Erling Haaland responded with a powerful header from a corner.
Controversy followed when Malcom appeared to win a penalty after being tripped by Ruben Dias, only for the referee’s decision to be overturned due to an offside in the build-up.
City pressed relentlessly in search of a winner, but Bounou pulled off a string of fine saves. Haaland looked to have scored a dramatic late goal, only for Ali Lajami to clear his effort off the line with a stunning goal-line clearance.
In extra time, Kalidou Koulibaly rose highest to nod in Ruben Neves’ corner and restore Al Hilal’s lead. But City again clawed their way back as substitute Phil Foden marked his 100th goal for the club with a composed finish.
Just as penalties loomed, Ederson managed to stop a close-range header from Sergej Milinkovic-Savic, but Marcos Leonardo reacted quickest to prod the rebound into the net — securing an unforgettable triumph for Al Hilal.
The Saudi Pro League side will return to Camping World Stadium on Friday to face Brazilian giants Fluminense for a place in the semifinals.
