Last updated on July 1, 2025
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Marcos Leonardo scored again in the 112th minute to seal a famous win for Al-Hilal and send them into the quarter-finals.
Image credit: B/R Football
Manchester City, the current Club World Cup champions, have been knocked out of the tournament after a thrilling 4-3 loss to Al-Hilal of Saudi Arabia in the Round of 16.
The exciting match went to extra time and ended in heartbreak for Pep Guardiola’s side.
How the Match Unfolded
City started the game strong, as they usually do. In the 9th minute, Bernardo Silva scored from close range, putting them ahead.
However, Al-Hilal players were upset because they felt Rayan Ait-Nouri used his hand in the build-up, but the goal stood.
Despite creating many chances in the first half, Manchester City couldn’t extend their lead.
Bono, Al-Hilal’s goalkeeper, made several excellent saves to deny City’s attackers.
Then, just 44 seconds into the second half, Brazilian striker Marcos Leonardo headed in an equaliser for Al-Hilal.
Moments later, former Barcelona winger Malcom gave Al-Hilal a shocking 2-1 lead.
But Erling Haaland quickly responded for City in the 55th minute, making it 2-2.
City came close to winning in normal time. Akanji hit the post, and Haaland’s rebound was cleared off the line by Ali Lajami.
In extra time, former Chelsea defender Kalidou Koulibaly gave Al-Hilal a 3-2 lead with a powerful header in the 94th minute.
But City refused to give up — Phil Foden scored in the 104th minute to bring the game level again.
However, it was Marcos Leonardo who became the hero. He scored again in the 112th minute to seal a famous win for Al-Hilal and send them into the quarter-finals.
Star Performers
Marcos Leonardo, just 22 years old, scored twice and was named Player of the Match. His second goal, in the 112th minute, was the winning strike.
Another standout was Bono, Al-Hilal’s goalkeeper. The Moroccan international made 10 saves to keep his team in the game and frustrate City’s strikers.
Joao Cancelo, a former Manchester City player, also played a key role, assisting one of Al-Hilal’s goals.
What Happens Next?
Manchester City now head home, disappointed and out of the Club World Cup.
Meanwhile, Al-Hilal stay in Orlando and will face Fluminense of Brazil in the quarter-finals this Friday.
If Al-Hilal win again, they will face either Chelsea or Palmeiras in the semi-final.
Why This Match Matters
This game will be remembered as one of the most exciting in the history of the Club World Cup.
It ended at 4:45 am UK time and delivered non-stop drama for fans watching worldwide.
