Defending champions and European powerhouse Manchester City were eliminated by Saudi Pro League champions Al Hilal in a thrilling seven-goal match that went into extra time in Orlando.
Al Hilal’s unexpected 4-3 victory over Manchester City marks one of the biggest upsets in the tournament’s history.
The match ended 2-2 after regulation time on Monday, but Marcos Leonardo scored the decisive goal during extra time, securing a historic win for Middle Eastern football.
With this victory, Al Hilal moves on to the quarter-finals, where they will face Brazilian team Fluminense, ensuring that a non-European club will reach the semi-finals.
Manchester City took an early lead in the ninth minute in a controversial play, with Bernardo Silva scoring from Rayan Ait-Nouri’s cross.
Al Hilal players argued that Ait-Nouri had handled the ball in the buildup, but the goal was allowed.
City had numerous chances to extend their lead before halftime, but a mix of poor finishing and outstanding saves from Moroccan goalkeeper Yassine Bounou kept the score at 1-0.
Bounou was instrumental for Al Hilal, thwarting several attempts from Manchester City, including a shot from Erling Haaland.
Al Hilal reminded everyone of their attacking threat, but City continued to create chances, with Jeremy Doku’s volley going straight to Bounou, who then made another excellent save against Bernardo.
The turning point came just a minute into the second half when Joao Cancelo’s low cross was deflected by Ederson.
Malcolm seized the opportunity, and although his shot was blocked by Ruben Dias, the ball fell to Marcos Leonardo, who headed in the equalizer.
Just six minutes later, City’s high defensive line was caught out by a long ball from Cancelo, which Malcolm chased down, showcasing his strength and speed before calmly finishing past Ederson.
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The Saudi fans erupted in celebration, prompting City manager Pep Guardiola to make an immediate triple substitution, bringing on midfielder Rodri and defenders Nathan Ake and Manuel Akanji.
These changes provided much-needed stability to a shaky defense, but City also needed to improve their attack, which they did in a messy fashion.
The Al Hilal defense struggled to clear a corner, allowing Haaland to score from the loose ball and equalize at 2-2.
City intensified their efforts in search of a winner, but once again, Bounou was a formidable obstacle, denying attempts from Akanji and Dias.
Even when Haaland managed to get past him, substitute Ali Lajami made a remarkable clearance off the line.
As the match went into extra time, Guardiola replaced Haaland with Egyptian forward Omar Marmoush.
