Summary:
In a jaw-dropping Club World Cup Round of 16 clash, Saudi Pro League giants Al Hilal knocked out Manchester City with a 4-3 extra-time victory, despite a goal from Erling Haaland. Pep Guardiola’s side, one of the tournament favorites, now exits early in what is being seen as a major upset.
A Shocking Exit That No One Saw Coming
The FIFA Club World Cup 2025 has witnessed its first seismic shock. Manchester City, the reigning Premier League champions and one of the most dominant teams in European football, were eliminated by Saudi Arabian side Al Hilal in a thrilling 4-3 extra-time contest at Camping World Stadium.
Despite fielding a strong lineup and taking the early lead, Pep Guardiola’s men were undone by tactical brilliance, counter-attacks, and defensive lapses. Here’s how the chaos unfolded and what it means going forward.
How the Match Played Out
City Strike First – But Controversy Clouds It
City began the match on the front foot and were rewarded inside the first 10 minutes with a goal from Bernardo Silva. However, the build-up raised eyebrows, as the referee overlooked two clear handball appeals from Al Hilal players. Despite the protests, the goal stood, giving City an early advantage.
Al Hilal Bounce Back with Tactical Masterclass
Without star striker Aleksandar Mitrovic, Al Hilal’s new manager Simone Inzaghi set his side up to counterattack. The plan worked. While the first half ended with City ahead, the Saudi team came out sharper in the second half. A header from Marcos Leonardo equalized for Al Hilal, followed by a stunning solo run and finish by Malcom, who exposed City’s frailty on the flanks.
Haaland’s Strike Keeps City Alive
City responded through Erling Haaland, who slammed home his 301st career goal after a defensive scramble. Despite several near misses—including a dramatic clearance off the line—City couldn’t pull ahead again in regulation time.
Extra Time Drama: Al Hilal Have the Last Laugh
Extra time brought even more fireworks. Kalidou Koulibaly rose highest from a corner to make it 3-2 for Al Hilal. Substitute Phil Foden equalized shortly after, latching onto a brilliant cross. But in the 112th minute, Leonardo sealed the win with his second goal, pouncing on a loose ball in the box to send City packing.
Key Reasons Behind Manchester City’s Collapse
- Tactical Naivety from Guardiola
While Guardiola opted for a strong lineup, City were alarmingly vulnerable on the counter. With fullbacks out of position and midfielders slow to recover, Al Hilal’s pace and movement proved devastating.
- Lack of Defensive Cohesion
City’s backline looked disjointed. Matheus Nunes, playing out of position, was exposed repeatedly. Josko Gvardiol and Rayan Ait Nouri failed to close down spaces, especially on the flanks. The team sorely missed the leadership of seasoned defenders in key moments.
- Poor Substitution Choices
Subbing in Rodri, the Ballon d’Or winner, when chasing the game raised eyebrows. Although he brought some control, removing him later in extra time made little sense. Guardiola’s changes didn’t add the needed attacking threat.
- Individual Errors and Missed Chances
City had several chances to kill the game but lacked clinical finishing. Haaland was quiet for most of the match, while Jeremy Doku and Savinho failed to capitalize on 1v1 situations. Small errors from players like Nathan Ake, who lost his marker on a crucial goal, also proved costly.
- Malcom & Leonardo’s Brilliance
While City faltered, Al Hilal’s attackers flourished. Malcom was a constant menace, while Leonardo’s positioning and sharp instincts made the difference. Their performances exposed City’s lack of urgency and defensive discipline.
Player Ratings Summary
Goalkeeper & Defense
Ederson (6/10): Couldn’t do much for the goals. Distributed well.
Matheus Nunes (5/10): Looked completely out of place as a right-back.
Ruben Dias (7/10): One key block saved a goal. Otherwise solid.
Josko Gvardiol (5/10): Hooked early due to a shaky display.
Rayan Ait Nouri (5/10): Good in possession but weak defensively.
Midfield
Ilkay Gundogan (5/10): Decent on the ball, poor without it.
Tijjani Reijnders (8/10): Controlled tempo, excellent throughout.
Bernardo Silva (6/10): Scored but faded as the game wore on.
Attack
Savinho (5/10): Ineffective and indecisive.
Erling Haaland (7/10): Scored and came close to a second.
Jeremy Doku (6/10): Dangerous but lacked end product.
Subs
Rodri (5/10): Strange substitution; made little impact.
Nathan Ake (5/10): Made key errors during set-pieces.
Manuel Akanji (6/10): Hit the post, solid overall.
Omar Marmoush (5/10): Energetic but ineffective.
Rayan Cherki (7/10): Bright spark off the bench, assisted Foden.
Phil Foden (6/10): Scored to give City hope.
Manager
Pep Guardiola (4/10): Overthought the match. Poor tactical and substitution decisions led to a deserved defeat.
What This Loss Means for City
This unexpected loss is a huge blow for Manchester City. Not only does it cost them a shot at a global trophy, but it also raises questions about their squad depth and tactical flexibility. With the Premier League, Champions League, and FA Cup campaigns in progress, Guardiola must regroup quickly.
Meanwhile, Al Hilal’s victory will be remembered as one of the biggest upsets in Club World Cup history. Manager Simone Inzaghi has laid down a marker, and the Saudi Pro League’s rise continues.
What’s Next for Both Teams?
Manchester City: The focus now shifts back to domestic and European competitions. With defensive gaps exposed, Guardiola may consider reinforcements or tactical adjustments.
Al Hilal: They progress to the Club World Cup quarterfinals, brimming with confidence. Next up is likely Fluminense or another South American powerhouse.
Final Thoughts
In a sport where giants often dominate, Al Hilal’s victory is a breath of fresh air. For Manchester City, it’s a humbling reminder that even the biggest names can fall on the world stage. The 2025 FIFA Club World Cup just got a whole lot more interesting.