Manchester City lost to Al-Hilal in a thrilling 4-3 match
Manchester City suffered a shocking exit from the Club World Cup, losing to Al-Hilal in a thrilling 4-3 match that went into extra time.
Despite navigating the group stages unbeaten, Pep Guardiola’s side crashed out in the last 16, struggling with a disjointed defensive performance that saw them concede four goals.
City got off to a quick start, scoring within the first 10 minutes for the fourth consecutive game in the competition.
Bernardo Silva headed home from close range after a defensive clearance fell short, giving City an early lead.
However, Al-Hilal players were furious, claiming Rayan Ait-Nouri had handled the ball in the buildup, but no foul was given.
Al-Hilal goalkeeper Bono made crucial saves, denying Savinho and Ilkay Gundogan from close range, before sharply tipping Josko Gvardiol’s header over the crossbar.
While Al-Hilal struggled to create chances in the first half, they made a strong start to the second.
Brazilian striker Marcos Leonardo headed in the equalizer just 44 seconds after the restart.
City were left reeling when former Barcelona player Malcom broke through and calmly scored, giving Al-Hilal a surprise lead in the 52nd minute.
However, Erling Haaland quickly restored parity just three minutes later, poking home from a corner.
As the thrilling match neared its end, Manuel Akanji’s header hit the post, and Erling Haaland’s subsequent follow-up shot was dramatically cleared off the line by Ali Lajami, keeping the score level.
City now head home after a disappointing result. Al-Hilal, however, will remain in Orlando for Friday’s quarter-final clash against Brazilian side Fluminense.
The winner of that tie will advance to the semi-finals in New York/New Jersey, where they will face the victor of the match between Chelsea and Palmeiras.
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