Al Hilal Shocks the World, Knocks Out Manchester City
Sergej Milinković-Savić led Al Hilal to a shocking 4-3 win over Manchester City in the FIFA Club World Cup quarterfinal in Orlando. The triumph silenced critics of the Saudi Pro League and garnered international attention.
Simone Inzaghi, the new coach of Al Hilal, is the driving force behind this triumph, which makes a significant message for Saudi football.
Sergej Milinković-Savić: “Let’s See If They Criticise Us Now”
After the match, Sergej Milinković-Savić, who joined Al Hilal from Lazio in 2023, issued a fiery response to critics:
“We showed them it’s not like they are speaking about the league. We show against Real Madrid, Salzburg, Pachuca and tonight. Let’s see now if they will criticise us.”
Often accused of choosing money over legacy, Milinković-Savić and his teammates flipped the narrative on its head with this upset over the reigning Premier League champions.
Man City vs Al-Hilal SFC Stats and Lineups
The man city vs al-hilal sfc lineups featured stars like Ederson in goal and Rayan Cherki and Aït Nouri for Al Hilal, who each played pivotal roles.
Score / Man City Game:
- Al Hilal 4 – 3 Manchester City
- Al Hilal scorers: Cherki, Milinković-Savić, Salem Al-Dawsari, and an own goal by City.
- City scorers: Haaland, De Bruyne, Foden.
Key Match Stats:
- Possession: Man City 66%, Al Hilal 34%
- Shots on target: City 8, Al Hilal 7
- Saves: Ederson 3, Al Hilal keeper 5
Simone Inzaghi Tactical Masterclass
Al Hilal coach Simone Inzaghi, recently appointed after departing Inter Milan, pulled off a miracle.
“We knew we had to climb Mount Everest without oxygen,” Inzaghi said. “Guardiola is the best in the world, but tonight we did our best and deserved the result.”
He credited the win to the Al Hilal roster’s heart and discipline, even with minimal prep time.
Source: Espn