Al-Hilal vs Manchester City: Saudis Rejoice At City’s Expense
The fast-emerging Saudi Pro League had much to rejoice about, as one of its very own, Al-Hilal, made it to the quarter finals of the FIFA Club World Cup at the expense of Manchester City, one of the giants of European Club Football.
A Thriller Unfolded In Orlando, Florida
Al-Hilal ( The Crescent Moon), based in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, and coached by Simone Inzaghi, took on Manchester City at the Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, in what was expected to be an easy stretch for the former EPL Champions. What turned out eventually was a thriller, which, against all odds, went Al-Hilal’s way.
Manchester City Draw First Blood but Al-Hilal Counter-Attack
Manchester City drew first blood through Bernardo Silva, who shot home from close range in a goalmouth scramble early in the first half. But Al-Hilal responded brilliantly in the second half with two majestic goals. One scored by the 22-year-old Brazilian Marcos Leonardo with a lovely header in the 46th minute, and the other scored by Malcolm 6 minutes later. It was a goal that had sensational counter-attacking written all over it.
The Punches & Counter Punches Continue Into Extra Time
Haaland equalised 3 minutes later from another goalmouth scramble as 90 minutes ended 2-2. The extra time was nothing short of drama, either. Senegalese Kalidou Koulibaly scored for Al-Hilal from a terrific header, which had precision written all over it, but Phil Foden came off the bench to equalise again for City from a sensational volley. It was a great goal from Foden from the tightest of angles in the 104th minute.
Al-Hilal Win It Eventually As Leonardo Scores Again
Al-Hilal, however, had the last laugh as Marcos Leonardo scored in the 112th minute from an Ederson rebound. Al-Hilal held on for a very famous victory in a 7-goal thriller and a place in Saturday’s quarter-final against Fluminense.
A Tremendous Performance From Al-Hilal
It was a show of tremendous belligerence, dogged defending, and brilliant counter-attacking from Al-Hilal. Though Manchester City held the ball for long periods ( had a massive 71% possession) and attacked the Al-Hilal goal several times, they could not get through the defenses of Al-Hilal easily. Pep Guardiola rang in the changes with quick substitutions to keep fresh legs on the field, but still could not overcome the stoic resolve of the Saudis. The Crescent Moon punched and counter-punched to make it their night.
City End A Disappointing Season
Manchester City ended the season without any Silverware. The great side was looking good until they ran into Al-Hilal. City had not expected this performance from the Riyadh Club and were caught completely unawares by the quality of Al-Hilal. A learning curve for City indeed.
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Great performance by Al Hilal
So true Fuad Bhai