Manchester City vs Al-Ain: Club World Cup Live Updates as Citizens Chase Knockout Qualification

Manchester City Secure Club World Cup Semifinal Berth with Dominant Win Over Al Ain

By Tum Balogun and Jack Gaughan at Mercedes-Benz Stadium
Published: 01:50 BST, 23 June 2025 | Updated: 01:50 BST, 23 June 2025

[Image: Manchester City players celebrate a goal against Al Ain (credit: Daily Mail)]

Manchester City advanced to the Club World Cup semifinals with a commanding 3-1 victory over Al Ain FC at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Julian Álvarez shone with a breathtaking solo goal, while Christopher Nkunku sealed the win late on after Al Ain briefly threatened a comeback.

First-Half Dominance
City dictated play from the outset, with Álvarez breaking the deadlock in the 21st minute. The Argentine forward received a pinpoint pass from Jack Grealish, sliced through Al Ain’s defense with a nimble dribble, and slotted a low finish past goalkeeper Khalid Eisa.

[Image: Álvarez celebrates his opening goal (credit: Getty Images)]

Pep Guardiola’s side dominated possession but were nearly pegged back when Al Ain’s Soufiane Rahimi forced a sharp save from Ederson minutes later. The Brazilian goalkeeper’s reflexes kept City ahead, denying the Moroccon striker again before halftime.

Controversial Penalty Drama
Al Ain equalized controversially early in the second half. Defender Aymeric Laporte was penalized for a challenge on Rahimi, though replays showed minimal contact. Rahimi converted the resulting penalty, igniting hopes of an upset.

City responded instantly. Phil Foden rattled the crossbar moments later, and Álvarez turned provider, threading a pass to Nkunku, who restored the lead with a composed finish in the 65th minute.

Nkunku Seals Victory
The French midfielder put the game beyond doubt in the 79th minute, tapping in a rebound after Kyle Walker’s fierce strike was parried by Eisa. Guardiola’s tactical changes, including introducing Kevin De Bruyne off the bench, ensured City’s control.

[Image: Nkunku scores City’s third goal (credit: Reuters)]

Key Performances

• Álvarez: A goal and assist, showcasing relentless energy.
• Ederson: Critical saves kept City in control during Al Ain’s resurgence.
• Grealish: Creative force on the left flank, assisting the opener.

Guardiola’s Reaction
“We faced a resilient opponent, but the players showed maturity,” Guardiola said post-match. “Julian was exceptional, but this is a collective effort. The semifinal will demand more.”

Up Next
City await the winner of South American champions Fluminense and Urawa Red Diamonds. The final four clash takes place on Friday, with Guardiola eyeing a historic fifth trophy in 2025.

[Image: Guardiola instructs his team from the sidelines (credit: AP)]

Final Score: Manchester City 3-1 Al Ain
Scorers: Álvarez (21’), Rahimi (pen 52’), Nkunku (65’, 79’)

Attendance: 45,000

Follow Mail Sport for live updates on Manchester City’s Club World Cup campaign.