Manchester City suffered a shocking exit from the Club World Cup after a thrilling 4-3 extra-time defeat to Saudi Arabian champions Al Hilal, marking one of the tournament’s most memorable upsets.

The pulsating encounter in Orlando, which stretched over 120 minutes, was decided by a late goal from Marcos Leonardo in the 112th minute, securing Al Hilal’s place in the quarter-finals against Fluminense.

City dominated the opening stages, with Jérémy Doku’s pace troubling the Al Hilal defence. Their persistence paid off early, as Bernardo Silva pounced on a loose ball inside the box to give the European champions the lead in the 9th minute. Despite enjoying possession for much of the first half, Guardiola’s men couldn’t extend their advantage.

Al Hilal had a brief moment of hope when they thought they had won a penalty, but VAR ruled out the opportunity for offside in the build-up. City came close to snatching victory in normal time, only for Al Hilal to clear off the line amid a frantic goalmouth scramble. With the scores locked at 2-2 after 90 minutes, the game headed to extra time.

The Saudi side struck first in the added period, as Kalidou Koulibaly rose highest from a corner to nod them in front. City responded swiftly, with substitute Phil Foden levelling the score after latching onto a clever pass from recent signing Rayan Cherki.

However, the decisive moment came when City goalkeeper Ederson pulled off a superb save to deny Sergej Milinkovic-Savic, only for the rebound to fall kindly for Leonardo, who slotted home the winner.

The result marked a bitter disappointment for Manchester City, while Al Hilal, now under the guidance of former Inter Milan boss Simone Inzaghi, celebrated a famous victory and progression to the next round.

Source: Gulf News