Saudi Arabian giants Al Hilal have reportedly receive a €5 million reward after pulling off one of the biggest shocks in FIFA Club World Cup history, defeating reigning European champions Manchester City 4-3 in a breathtaking last-16 clash in Florida.
In a game that underlined Saudi Arabia’s growing ambition to become a dominant force in world football, Al Hilal’s dramatic victory served as a moment of validation for the billions invested in the sport.
According to talkSPORT, “Al Hilal players receive eye-watering bonus after shock victory against Man City.”
On a night that saw emotions soar, supporters erupted with joy as the Saudi club knocked out Pep Guardiola’s men in a thrilling encounter that lasted into the early hours of the UK morning, finishing at 04:45 BST.
Manchester City had breezed through the group stages and looked to maintain their momentum when Bernardo Silva capitalized on a defensive error to open the scoring inside 10 minutes. However, Al Hilal protested vehemently, claiming a handball by Rayan Ait-Nouri in the build-up. Despite early City pressure, which saw goalkeeper Bono produce top-class saves from Savinho, Ilkay Gundogan, and Josko Gvardiol, the Saudi side remained in the contest.
Just 44 seconds into the second half, Al Hilal flipped the script. Brazilian forward Marcos Leonardo nodded in the equalizer, sparking belief among the underdogs. That belief intensified moments later when Malcom, once of Barcelona, raced clear and calmly slotted home to give Al Hilal a shock lead in the 52nd minute. Although Erling Haaland quickly responded by leveling the score from a corner, the tide had shifted.
City came close to restoring their lead, with Manuel Akanji hitting the post and Haaland’s rebound being miraculously cleared off the line by Ali Lajami. The match moved into extra time, where Kalidou Koulibaly – once of Chelsea – rose highest to head Al Hilal back in front. But Phil Foden had other ideas, volleying in from a tight angle to force yet another twist.
Ultimately, it was Marcos Leonardo who delivered the decisive blow. The 22-year-old, already on the scoresheet, tucked home at the back post in the 112th minute to seal a famous victory and cement his status as the hero of the night.
Equally vital was the performance of Moroccan goalkeeper Bono, whose ten saves proved instrumental in keeping Al Hilal in the game. The 2022 World Cup semi-finalist showed incredible reflexes, particularly in the face of City’s relentless first-half pressure. Also instrumental was former City defender Joao Cancelo, who played a key role in setting up Al Hilal’s early goals.
While Manchester City will reflect on their defensive frailties and missed opportunities, Al Hilal march on to the quarter-finals in Orlando, where they will face Brazilian outfit Fluminense. The winner of that encounter will move on to the semi-finals in New York/New Jersey to face either Chelsea or Palmeiras.
For Al Hilal, it was more than just a win – it was a statement of intent on the global stage. For City, it was a night to forget in a tournament that unexpectedly slipped away.
