By Sport Analyst
Emmanuel Afonja
In one of the most dramatic matches in FIFA Club World Cup history, Saudi Arabian giants Al-Hilal pulled off a sensational 4-3 extra-time victory over European champions Manchester City, dashing Pep Guardiola’s hopes of adding the only missing trophy to his cabinet.
Played in front of a thunderous crowd, the semifinal clash saw Al-Hilal rise to the occasion with courage, skill, and resilience, overcoming the odds against the heavily favored Premier League side. The result marks a historic moment for both the Saudi Pro League and Asian football, proving that the global football landscape is shifting.
First-Half Fireworks
Manchester City started brightly and took an early lead through Bernardo Silva, who tucked in a clever finish after a slick move in the 12th minute. But Al-Hilal, managed by Jorge Jesus, responded swiftly. Their talismanic striker Salem Al-Dawsari equalized in the 23rd minute with a brilliant curling effort that left Ederson rooted.
City regained the lead just before halftime, thanks to Julian Alvarez, but defensive lapses would haunt them.
Second-Half Comeback
The second half saw Al-Hilal push City to their limits. Their high-intensity pressing and quick counterattacks paid off, with Michael and Sergej Milinković-Savić both finding the back of the net to put the Saudis 3-2 up. Guardiola’s side showed resilience of their own, as Kevin De Bruyne, returning from injury, orchestrated a swift equalizer for Phil Foden in the 84th minute, sending the game into extra time.
Extra-Time Drama
As fatigue set in, Al-Hilal dug deep. In the 112th minute, substitute Moussa Marega latched onto a loose ball in the box and drilled it past Ederson to restore the Saudi club’s lead. Despite City’s desperate late attacks, Al-Hilal held on, sending their fans into a frenzy and the football world into shock.
A Wake-Up Call for City
For Manchester City, the defeat is a significant blow. The Club World Cup was the last piece missing from Guardiola’s unprecedented trophy haul, and their elimination raises questions about squad depth and fatigue after a grueling campaign.
A Statement Win for Al-Hilal
For Al-Hilal and Saudi football, the win is monumental. It underscores the rapid development of the region’s football infrastructure and talent. With increasing investments and ambition, Al-Hilal’s victory over the reigning European champions is a signal that Asian clubs are no longer just participating — they’re competing and winning.
They now move on to the final with confidence, eyeing their first-ever Club World Cup title — and after this performance, no one will be underestimating them again.
