In a dramatic Round of 16 clash, Premier League champions Manchester City were eliminated from the FIFA Club World Cup following a thrilling 4&ndash;3 defeat to Saudi Arabia&rsquo;s Al Hilal &mdash; the only Arab club advancing to the next round this competition.
A Fast Start and a Furious Response
The match, held in the United States, kicked off with Manchester City asserting early dominance. Bernardo Silva opened the scoring with a powerful strike, giving fans early hope for a comfortable win. City controlled much of the first half and created several chances, but Al Hilal responded with determination and firepower.
Extra-Time Mayhem
By the end of regular time, the score was 2&ndash;2, sending the match into extra time. Former Chelsea defender Kalidou Koulibaly seemed to have sealed it for Al Hilal in the 94th minute, powering in a header that sent Saudi fans into celebration.
However, City&rsquo;s Phil Foden, coming off the bench, answered back with a clever volley from a tight angle, making it 3&ndash;3 and reviving City&rsquo;s hopes.
But Marcos Leonardo had the final word. In the 112th minute, he scored at the back post to deliver a monumental result for the 2021 AFC Champions League winners, ending City's title hopes in vivid way.
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A Surprising Exit for Guardiola's Side
Despite dominating possession and attacking phases, Manchester City couldn&rsquo;t break down Al Hilal&rsquo;s compact defense and quick counterattacks. The result marks a shocking early exit for Pep Guardiola's squad, while Al Hilal celebrates a historic victory that increases Arab football on the global stage.
What&rsquo;s Next?
City now heads home disappointed and out of argument. Meanwhile, Al Hilal will remain in Orlando, where they&rsquo;ll face Fluminense in the quarter-finals on Friday. The winner of that match will go on to meet either Chelsea or Palmeiras in the semi-finals, set to take place in New York/New Jersey.
Photo Credit: FCWC's official page&nbsp;
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