Manchester City bowed out of the Club World Cup after an astounding 4-3 extra-time loss to Al-Hilal.
Though the last 16 clash in Orlando resulted in an exciting seven-goal struggle, it ended with City shocked by the Saudi Arabian team.
Opening the scoring in the ninth minute, Bernardo Silva provided Pep Guardiola’s team with the ideal start.
The Cityzens, however, lost command and missed obvious opportunities before Al-Za’eem penalized them after the half.
Marcos Leonardo hit first, and former Barcelona winger Malcom gave the Saudi Pro League outfit a shocking comeback by scoring the goal that gave them the lead.
With a strong finish, Erling Haaland pushed for extra-time. But when Kalidou Koulibaly headed the Blue Waves back ahead, the Sky Blues’ defensive fragility became evident once again.
Deep into extra time, Phil Foden retaliated with another equaliser to provide City hope.
Al Hilal were not, however, done. Leonardo came up once more with only minutes left. His second goal in the 112th minute assured a well-known triumph.
Unable to respond again, Guardiola’s men were repeatedly found on the counter.
Their defeat ends the hope of a semifinal fight against Chelsea, who face Palmeiras in the quarters.
Simone Inzaghi’s players next go against Fluminense, who astonished Inter Milan to earn their own spot in the last eight.
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