Saudi Arabia’s long-term investment in football delivered a spectacular return on Monday night in Florida, as Al-Hilal pulled off one of the most memorable wins in Club World Cup history by defeating Manchester City 4-3. In a dramatic and high-octane match, the Riyadh-based side eliminated the reigning Premier League champions, a result that sent shockwaves across the football world and energized Saudi fans with a renewed sense of belief in their nation's footballing ambitions.
The match was decided in extra time by a composed finish from Brazilian striker Marcos Leonardo, whose two goals sealed the result. His winner came in the 112th minute, completing a performance that was as emotional as it was historic. After the match, Leonardo dedicated the victory to his mother, who had recently recovered from a serious illness that had kept her in intensive care for over two months. "When I scored those two goals, I thought of her. She was able to watch the game," he shared tearfully.
The night was a defining one not just for the players, but also for head coach Simone Inzaghi. Just a month ago, Inzaghi had parted ways with Inter Milan after a heavy Champions League final defeat to PSG. Now at the helm of Al-Hilal, and despite missing key players like Salem Al-Dawsari and Aleksandar Mitrovic due to injury, Inzaghi guided his team to a victory few thought possible. "We knew we had to climb Mount Everest without oxygen, and we were great," he said, praising the heart and determination shown by his players. "They deserved it. They fought for every ball, and it gives satisfaction to the Al-Hilal family, to Saudi Arabia, and to the fans."
The match, filled with end-to-end action, had the intensity and drama of a championship bout. In the U.S.—where Monday nights are usually reserved for pro wrestling—it was football that captivated audiences, as the seven-goal thriller unfolded live on screens across the country. The significance of the win wasn't lost on former England international Andros Townsend, who said on DAZN: “Al-Hilal have shocked the world.”
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