Saudi Arabia’s Al Hilal pulled off a stunning upset at the FIFA Club World Cup, eliminating reigning European champions Manchester City with a dramatic 4-3 extra-time victory in Orlando.
The match, held at Camping World Stadium, was tied 2-2 at the end of regular time before Brazilian striker Marcos Leonardo netted the decisive goal in extra time, sealing what is being hailed as one of the most significant wins in Middle Eastern football history.
Al Hilal now advances to the quarter-finals, where they will face the Brazilian side Fluminense. With this result, at least one non-European team is now guaranteed a place in the final four — a rarity in recent Club World Cup tournaments.
Manchester City’s early exit marks a significant disappointment in their international campaign, while Al Hilal’s win underscores the growing competitiveness of Saudi clubs on the global stage.
–Input WAM
