AL-HILAL STUN MAN CITY IN 4-3 THRILLER, INZAGHI CALLS WIN ‘CLIMBING MOUNT EVEREST’

By: Gyang Dakwo

Al-Hilal pulled off one of the biggest upsets in recent football history by defeating Manchester City 4-3 after extra time in the last 16 of the FIFA Club World Cup in Orlando, United States.

The Saudi Arabian champions, managed by Italian coach Simone Inzaghi, sealed the dramatic win with a late goal in the 112th minute from Brazilian forward Marcos Leonardo. The victory booked Al-Hilal a place in the quarter-finals where they will face Brazilian side Fluminense on Friday.

Speaking after the match, Inzaghi praised his players for their courage and discipline, describing the result as a near-impossible achievement.

“The key to this result was the players, and the heart they put on the pitch tonight. We had to do something extraordinary because we all know Manchester City, that team,” he said.

“We had to climb Mount Everest without oxygen and we made it. All the players were exceptional in everything, in the possession phase and the non-possession phase.

“We were very well organised in possession and we played well from a technical point of view against a team which is really aggressive and strong in possession.”

Inzaghi also praised Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola, calling him the best coach in the world, but added that his side deserved the win.

Guardiola’s side, who were expected to ease past the Saudi side. However, Al-Hilal showed determination throughout the encounter and matched City in every department.

The result means Al-Hilal move into the last eight, while City crash out earlier than expected.