1 July 2025 — Football News Desk
Football fans were treated to an exciting showdown today as Manchester City took on Saudi club Al-Hilal in an international friendly match that drew global attention. The game, held at a neutral venue, was part of both clubs’ pre-season preparations and served as a rare clash between European and Middle Eastern football giants.
Manchester City, led by manager Pep Guardiola, fielded a mix of senior stars and emerging talents. Despite the absence of some key names due to rest and injury recovery, the Premier League champions displayed their signature possession-heavy game and attacking flair.
Al-Hilal, on the other hand, showed resilience and energy. With high-profile players like Neymar and Mitrović in the squad, the Saudi side created several chances and kept City’s defense on their toes throughout the match.
The first half ended in a 1–1 draw, with City scoring early through a well-placed finish from Phil Foden, while Al-Hilal responded just before the break with a goal from Sergej Milinković-Savić after a quick counter-attack.
In the second half, both teams made multiple substitutions, giving young players a chance to shine. The match remained evenly balanced, with both goalkeepers making crucial saves. A late goal from City’s youngster Oscar Bobb tipped the match in favor of the English side, ending the game 2–1.
While the result may not count for official rankings, the match was a valuable experience for both teams and showcased the growing competitiveness of Saudi club football on the international stage.