Manchester City’s run as FIFA Club World Cup champions came to an end in a dramatic thriller as Al Hilal staged a remarkable fightback to snatch a 4-3 victory after extra time in Orlando, thus the reigning champions were knocked out and Pep Guardiola’s record in the competition has come to an end.
City took the lead early through Bernardo Silva, whose close-range finish was allowed to stand despite VAR controversy over a possible handball in the buildup. The Premier League champions controlled the first half, but Yassine Bounou’s series of excellent saves kept the score at 1 at halftime.
Al Hilal completely changed the situation in the game after the break. Marcos Leonardo took advantage of a defensive mistake to score the equalizer, and Malcom ran alone from the midfield to put in the second goal. Erling Haaland immediately took back the lead for City at 2-2.
The extra time was about to come after missed opportunities and a goalline clearance from Ali Lajami. Kalidou Koulibaly’s strong header gave Al Hilal the lead again, and thus Phil Foden replied only a few seconds later. But Marcos Leonardo was the last to speak after Ederson’s first save he was able to tap the ball in.
The Saudi team have a go against Fluminense in the next round, while City bid goodbye after a thrilling and intense match.
