The 2025 FIFA Club World Cup marked a transformative chapter for Saudi football, and Al-Hilal Saudi Club stood proudly at its center. From thrilling performances to making history against European giants, the Riyadh-based club left a lasting impression on the global stage. Here's a comprehensive look at everything Al-Hilal achieved in the tournament.
🏆 Trophy Tour Kickoff in Riyadh
Before a ball was kicked, Al-Hilal had the honor of hosting the FIFA Club World Cup trophy tour. In March 2025, the 24-karat gold-plated trophy was presented at the Kingdom Arena in Riyadh, surrounded by fans, media, and club legends. This event ignited excitement across the Kingdom and set the tone for what would become a historic campaign.
🌍 Group Stage: Standing Tall Among Giants
Placed in Group H alongside Real Madrid, Red Bull Salzburg, and Pachuca, Al-Hilal delivered disciplined and courageous performances.
Match Results:
-
1–1 vs Real Madrid (Miami)
A resilient showing against the European champions, highlighted by brilliant goalkeeping from Yassine Bounou and a crucial equalizer by Salem Al-Dawsari. -
0–0 vs Red Bull Salzburg (Washington, D.C.)
A tactical stalemate where Al-Hilal’s defense held firm, with Bounou again playing a key role. -
2–0 vs Pachuca (Nashville)
Al-Hilal's first win came via a superb goal from Al-Dawsari and a stoppage-time strike from Marcos Leonardo, securing second place in the group and a spot in the Round of 16.
⚔️ Round of 16: The Match That Shocked the World
Al-Hilal 4–3 Manchester City (After Extra Time)
In one of the most thrilling matches in Club World Cup history, Al-Hilal stunned treble winners Manchester City in Orlando.
Key Highlights:
-
Goals from Marcos Leonardo (2), Malcom, and Kalidou Koulibaly sealed a dramatic victory.
-
Erling Haaland and Phil Foden found the net for City, but they were ultimately undone by Al-Hilal’s heart and tactical brilliance.
-
Coach Simone Inzaghi, recently appointed, masterminded a disciplined and dangerous counter-attacking system.
-
This victory was hailed globally as the biggest upset of the tournament, making Al-Hilal the first Asian club to eliminate a European powerhouse at this stage.
🏁 Quarter-Finals: Narrow Exit to Fluminense
Al-Hilal 1–2 Fluminense
Despite another brave performance, Al-Hilal were eliminated in the quarter-finals by Brazilian champions Fluminense. Marcos Leonardo once again found the back of the net, but the South Americans proved just a step too far.
🌟 Individual Stars
-
Yassine Bounou: Heroic in goal, with vital saves and a penalty stop.
-
Salem Al-Dawsari: Scored twice and led by example. Became Asia's top scorer in Club World Cup history.
-
Marcos Leonardo: Tournament breakout star with four goals, including a brace against Manchester City.
-
Malcom & Koulibaly: Provided leadership and quality at crucial moments.
📈 Legacy & Impact
Al-Hilal’s journey has done more than just win games—it has changed perceptions. Their performance:
-
Boosted Saudi football’s global reputation
-
Attracted international media attention
-
Proved that Saudi clubs can compete with the world’s best
-
Inspired younger generations and elevated club brand value
The tournament showcased not only the club’s talent but also the strategic vision of Saudi football’s rapid growth.
📊 Summary Table
| Stage | Opponent | Result | Notable Highlight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group Stage | Real Madrid | 1–1 Draw | Held the European champions |
| Group Stage | RB Salzburg | 0–0 Draw | Tactical discipline, clean sheet |
| Group Stage | Pachuca | 2–0 Win | Qualification to knockout round |
| Round of 16 | Manchester City | 4–3 Win (ET) | Historic upset, Leonardo brace |
| Quarter-finals | Fluminense | 1–2 Loss | Narrow defeat, spirited exit |
🔮 What’s Next for Al-Hilal?
With their Club World Cup heroics behind them, Al-Hilal returns to domestic and continental duties with greater confidence and expectation. Fans can expect a motivated team, bolstered by international experience and a growing hunger to become champions of the world.
