Club World Cup Shocker: Al-Hilal Dethrones Man City, Inter Milan Ousted

European football suffered a series of setbacks as Manchester City experienced a shocking defeat against Al-Hilal in the FIFA Club World Cup's round of 16. Adding to the surprise, Champions League finalists Inter Milan were also eliminated after a loss to Fluminense.

Al-Hilal took down Manchester City in the FIFA Club World Cup. (Image: AP)

The match between Al-Hilal and Manchester City was a thrilling contest that saw the Saudi Arabian side emerge victorious with a stoppage-time goal by Kalidou Koulibaly. Meanwhile, Fluminense, the Brazilian powerhouse, secured a convincing 2-0 victory over Inter Milan, further highlighting the growing competitiveness of non-European teams.

Al-Hilal showcased an exceptional performance in the second half, with Marcos Leonardo scoring twice, along with goals from Malcom and Kalidou Koulibaly. Despite Manchester City holding the lead at the end of the first half, the Saudi Arabian team's resilience and determination proved to be the deciding factor.

Bernardo Silva scored the opening goal for Manchester City in the ninth minute, giving his team control of the game for the majority of the first half. However, Al-Hilal came back strong after the break.

Leonardo leveled the score in the 46th minute, and Malcom quickly followed up with another goal to put the Saudi Arabian side in the lead.

In response, Pep Guardiola made strategic substitutions to reinforce his team's defense, bringing in players like Rodri, Nathan Ake, and Manuel Akanji. The fresh legs had an immediate impact, as Erling Haaland found the net, bringing Manchester City back into the game.

Both teams continued to make substitutions, utilizing their full squad, and the match went into extra time. The intensity remained high, and Koulibaly scored again with a header from a corner kick by Ruben Neves, giving Al-Hilal the lead once more.

However, Manchester City quickly responded as Rayan Cherki assisted Phil Foden, who scored with a stylish finish, leveling the score again. The game remained tight until the end of the first half of extra time.

Leonardo then scored his second goal, securing a historic victory for the Saudi-based team.

FLUMINENSE TRIUMPHS OVER UCL FINALISTS

Inter Milan did not perform to their usual standards, as Fluminense delivered a remarkable performance, contributing to the strong showing of Brazilian teams in the competition.

Fluminense extended their lead with a goal from Hercules, ensuring their victory.

German Cano swiftly put Fluminense in the lead, capitalizing on his excellent positioning in the box.

Al-Hilal and Fluminense are now set to face each other in the quarterfinal stage of the tournament.