Al-Hilal Advances to Club World Cup Knockouts as Only Non-European/American Team

Saudi Arabia's Al-Hilal made history by becoming the only Asian team to advance to the knockout stages of the FIFA Club World Cup 2025, finishing their Group H campaign unbeaten with a 2-0 win over Mexico's Pachuca. Under new head coach Simone Inzaghi, who took charge in June, Al-Hilal demonstrated strong defensive discipline, conceding only one goal in group play, a record matched by only Paris Saint-Germain and Monterrey, while also holding giants Real Madrid and Red Bull Salzburg to draws. Salem Al Dawsari scored a deft chip in the 22nd minute, and Marcos Leonardo sealed the victory in stoppage time, securing second place behind Real Madrid. The team’s resilience and tactical maturity are notable despite missing key players to injuries, supported by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund investments. Al-Hilal will face Manchester City in the round of 16, setting up a significant test against one of the world’s top clubs, with Manchester City recently finishing their group stage with a commanding 5-2 victory over Juventus. This achievement marks a milestone for Asian club football, showcasing Al-Hilal's growing competitiveness on the global stage.