Jeddah, July 1 (V7N) – In one of the most dramatic upsets in recent FIFA Club World Cup history, Saudi Arabian giants Al Hilal shocked European champions Manchester City with a thrilling 4–3 victory in the tournament’s Round of 16. The result sees Al Hilal surge into the quarterfinals, sending shockwaves across the global footballing landscape.

Despite entering the match as overwhelming favorites, Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City side—brimming with elite European talent—struggled to contain a fearless and tactically disciplined Al Hilal team. The Saudi outfit took the game to the reigning UEFA Champions League winners with relentless energy, razor-sharp counter-attacks, and clinical finishing.

Al Hilal’s offensive unit showed no signs of intimidation, breaking through City’s typically well-structured defense multiple times. Their goals came through swift, precise transitions that exposed gaps in City’s backline, leaving goalkeeper Ederson repeatedly vulnerable.

Manchester City, known for their possession-dominant style and tactical fluidity, found themselves trailing more than once and had to chase the game. While they mounted a fierce late push for an equalizer, Al Hilal held firm, displaying remarkable resilience and composure under pressure.

The result is being hailed by football pundits and fans as one of the greatest Club World Cup upsets in recent memory. It also highlights the rapidly increasing competitiveness of clubs from the Middle East, particularly in light of the heavy investments made into the Saudi Pro League in recent years. Al Hilal, as one of the league's flagship clubs, is now reaping the rewards of those efforts on the world stage.

This unexpected early exit for Manchester City will likely prompt reflection within the club and among European football institutions regarding their adaptability when facing dynamic and rising footballing powers from outside the traditional elite.

Al Hilal now advance to the quarterfinals with growing confidence and belief, looking to continue their historic run. Meanwhile, City’s campaign ends in disappointment, reminding the football world that in knockout football, reputation alone guarantees nothing.

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