Silva’s VAR-Aided Goal Lifts Man City Over Furious Al Hilal in Club World Cup Clash

Manchester City Triumph in Club World Cup Thriller Amid VAR Controversy
By Harry Bamforth and Jack Gaughan | Updated: 02:51 BST, 1 July 2025

Manchester City claimed their first Club World Cup title in a pulsating 3-2 victory over Al Hilal, but the match was overshadowed by a contentious VAR decision that sparked fury from the Saudi Arabian side.

VAR Drama Mars Early Stages
Bernardo Silva fired City ahead in the 12th minute after a controversial handball call against Al Hilal defender Ali Al-Bulaihi. The ball struck Al-Bulaihi’s arm during a goalmouth scramble, prompting referee Daniel Orsato to award a penalty following a lengthy VAR review. Al Hilal players surrounded the officials in protest, with captain Salem Al-Dawsari booked for dissent. Silva calmly converted the spot-kick, but tensions simmered throughout the half.

Al Hilal Strike Back
The Saudi Pro League champions equalized against the run of play in the 33rd minute. Former Wolves forward Malcolm capitalized on a defensive lapse from Manuel Akanji, slotting past Ederson. However, City restored their lead just before halftime when Julián Álvarez tapped in a rebound after Phil Foden’s shot was parried by goalkeeper Abdullah Al-Mayouf.

Second-Half Fireworks
Rodri extended City’s advantage to 3-1 in the 58th minute with a thunderous strike from 25 yards, but Al Hilal refused to fold. Substitute Michael Olise reduced the deficit in the 72nd minute with a clever near-post header, setting up a nervy finale. Pep Guardiola’s side survived a late onslaught, including a disallowed Al Hilal goal for offside, to clinch the trophy.

Post-Match Fallout
Al Hilal manager Jorge Jesus slammed the penalty decision: “We were robbed of a fair match. The handball rule must be clarified.” Guardiola countered: “VAR is part of football. We adapt and focus on controlling what we can.”

Tactical Takeaways
City dominated possession (68%) but faced unexpected threats on the counter. John Stones’ hybrid midfield role proved crucial in breaking Al Hilal’s compact defensive lines. For the Saudis, Sergej Milinković-Savić’s midfield mastery kept the clash competitive until the final whistle.

Historic Achievement
This victory completes City’s collection of major trophies under Guardiola, making them the fourth English club to win the Club World Cup. The win caps a remarkable year that included their maiden Champions League triumph.

Key Moments

• 12’: Penalty awarded to City via VAR; Silva scores (1-0)
• 33’: Malcolm equalizes for Al Hilal (1-1)
• 45+2’: Álvarez taps in rebound (2-1)
• 58’: Rodri rocket extends lead (3-1)
• 72’: Olise headers home for 3-2

What’s Next
City return to Premier League action against Chelsea on July 5, while Al Hilal shift focus to their Saudi King’s Cup defense. The result underscores the growing competitiveness of Middle Eastern clubs on the global stage.

Images: (1) City players celebrate with trophy; (2) VAR review moment; (3) Guardiola embracing Rodri post-match.

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