Hercules made a significant impact by scoring in the 70th minute, leading Fulminence to a 2-1 victory over Al-Hilal in the Club World Cup quarterfinal on Friday. The match, attended by 43,091 fans at Camp World Stadium, saw a tough, physical contest that resulted in multiple yellow cards for both teams during the first half.
Fulminence was quick to take advantage after Al-Hilal failed to clear the ball effectively. The second half saw a strong response from Al-Hilal, who had remained unbeaten in the tournament, with Marcos Leonardo equalizing the match in the 51st minute after his earlier heroics helped secure a 4-3 upset over Manchester City. Hercules, who came off the bench at halftime, ultimately clinched the win for Fulminence, securing their place in the semi-finals.
Key Events:
In the first half, Al-Hilal was awarded a penalty kick, but the decision was overturned by Chief Referee Danny McKelly after a VAR review.
Conclusion:
Fulminence will advance to face the winner of the Chelsea vs. Palmeiras match on Friday night in Philadelphia, with the semi-finals scheduled for Tuesday at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.
Reported by the Associated Press.
This victory not only boosts Fulminence’s chances but also highlights the growing competitiveness in international soccer, reflecting the unpredictable nature of such tournaments. For fans, this result serves as a reminder of why every match can produce thrilling surprises and why the Club World Cup remains a marquee event on the soccer calendar.