Saudi Pro League champions Al Hilal pulled off the biggest shock of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup so far, defeating defending champions Manchester City 4–3 after extra time in a thrilling round of 16 clash in Orlando.
The seven-goal epic saw City crash out of the competition despite leading early and dominating possession. Marcos Leonardo emerged as the hero, scoring twice — including the decisive goal in extra time — and dedicating the emotional win to his mother, who recently recovered from a critical illness.
City took an early lead in the 9th minute through Bernardo Silva, but Al Hilal, inspired by Yassine Bounou’s superb goalkeeping, clawed their way back. Malcolm and Marcos Leonardo capitalized on City’s defensive vulnerabilities, turning the game around shortly after halftime.
City forced extra time through goals from Erling Haaland and Phil Foden, but Al Hilal refused to back down. Kalidou Koulibaly and Leonardo struck again, sealing a famous win.
“We allowed them to run too much. It was always dangerous,” admitted City captain Bernardo Silva post-match.
The victory propels Al Hilal into the quarterfinals, where they will face Fluminense, ensuring that a non-European team will reach the semifinals of the tournament.
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