Al Hilal’s History in the FIFA Club World Cup: From Strong Debuts to a Historic Final
Al Hilal FC is one of Asia’s football powerhouses, and their participation in the FIFA Club World Cup has showcased their strength on a global stage. With consistent performances and a historic run to the final in 2022, the Saudi club has become a name to remember in the tournament’s history.
Al Hilal in the FIFA Club World Cup
Al Hilal has participated three times in the Club World Cup: in 2019, 2021, and 2022. The upcoming 2025 edition in the United States will mark their fourth appearance.
Their 2019 debut in Qatar saw them defeat Espérance de Tunis 1-0, lose to Flamengo 3-1 in the semi-final, and finish fourth after a penalty shootout loss to Monterrey.
In 2021, they thrashed Al Jazira 6-1, lost narrowly to Chelsea 1-0, and then were defeated 4-0 by Al Ahly in the third-place match.
But it was in 2022 that Al Hilal made history: they beat Wydad Casablanca on penalties, defeated Flamengo 3-2 in the semi-final, and reached the final where they fell to Real Madrid 5-3, earning an unprecedented second-place finish.
Al Hilal’s Appearances in the Club World Cup
Al Hilal has officially competed in:
- 2019 – Qatar
- 2021 – UAE
- 2022 – Morocco
They are also confirmed for the 2025 tournament in the USA, part of the new 32-team format representing the Asian Football Confederation.
Al Hilal’s Achievements in the Club World Cup
- 2019: Fourth place
- 2021: Fourth place
- 2022: Runners-up (Second place) – First Saudi club to reach the final
Al Hilal also became only the second Arab team to ever reach the final, joining Raja Casablanca and Al Ain, marking a historic moment for Gulf and Asian football.
