Fri Jul 04 20:20:00 UTC 2025: **SPORTS ILLUSTRATED FC – Mallow, Max**
**Al Hilal Stuns Manchester City in Club World Cup Upset; Fluminense Eliminate Inter Milan**
In a day of shocking results at the FIFA Club World Cup, Al Hilal pulled off a stunning 5-4 victory over Manchester City in extra time, sending shockwaves through the tournament. This followed an earlier upset where Fluminense eliminated Inter Milan.
Bernardo Silva put Manchester City ahead in the first half, but Al Hilal roared back after the break. Marcos Leonardo and Malcom scored to bring Al Hilal ahead before Erling Haaland forced extra time. But Leonardo scored again in the 112th minute securing the victory for the Saudi Arabian side.
Al Hilal’s coach, Simone Inzaghi, who lost the Champions League final against Pep Guardiola in 2023 secured a redemption victory in the stunning upset. The victory sets up a quarterfinal clash with Fluminense, promising another exciting encounter between two underdog teams.
Manchester City dominated the first half, showcasing their trademark possession-based style. However, they failed to maintain their dominance, a failure that proved costly. Young stars Tijjani Reijnders and Rayan Ait-Nouri stood out for Al Hilal, while Phil Foden’s resurgence offered a silver lining for City.
Al Hilal vs. Fluminense promises to be a must-watch encounter as both teams look to continue their unexpected runs to the final.
First Piper 