Manchester City's hopes of conquering the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 have been dashed in a stunning 4-3 extra-time defeat to Al-Hilal in the Round of 16. The Sky Blues, considered strong favorites, crashed out of the tournament after an enthralling match at Camping World Stadium in Orlando.

Bernardo Silva opened the scoring for City in the 9th minute, tapping home after an Al-Hilal defender's attempted clearance. However, Al-Hilal responded strongly in the second half, with Marcos Leonardo and Malcom scoring within six minutes of each other to put the Saudi Arabian side ahead. Erling Haaland quickly equalized for City, but Kalidou Koulibaly restored Al-Hilal's lead early in extra time. Phil Foden then scored his 100th goal for City to level the score again, but Marcos Leonardo's second goal in the 112th minute proved to be the winner for Al-Hilal.

The game was filled with drama and controversy. City's opening goal was subject to a VAR check for a potential handball in the build-up, but the goal was eventually allowed to stand. Al-Hilal's second goal also sparked debate, with City's defense being caught out by a long ball. Despite the setbacks, City continued to fight, but Al-Hilal's goalkeeper, Yassine Bounou, made several crucial saves to deny City's attack.

After the match, Andros Townsend noted that Manchester City, whose squad was valued at $8 billion by Forbes in May, appeared "shellshocked".

Al-Hilal's victory was a major upset, with many considering City to be among the favorites to win the tournament. The Saudi Arabian side's relentless attack and clinical finishing proved to be too much for City. Al-Hilal will now face Brazilian side Fluminense in the quarterfinals.

The loss marks a disappointing end to Manchester City's FIFA Club World Cup 2025 campaign. Despite winning the Champions League in 2023 and qualifying for the expanded Club World Cup in the United States, they were unable to progress beyond the Round of 16.