However, observers of the Roshn Saudi League, and Asian football more generally, know what the record continental champions are capable of.

  Still, the dramatic 4-3 win in extra time underlined not only Al Hilal’s amazing ability. It also emphasised the growth of football in the Kingdom, as the Riyadh club went toe-to-toe with a European heavyweight and landed the knockout blow.

  Speaking on what ranks as one of the greatest nights in Saudi football history, Al Hilal Manager, Simone Inzaghi, said: “The key to this result is: the players, and the hearts they put on the pitch. Tonight, we had to do something extraordinary because we knew how good Manchester City are. We knew we had to climb Mount Everest without oxygen – and we were great.

  “We played with a strong determination, and we are really feeling the game. They deserved it. They fought for every ball, and it gives satisfaction to the family of Al Hilal, Saudi Arabia, and the fans that are here with us.”

  The scorer of Al Hilal’s third goal agrees with his coach. He added: “We knew that it would be a difficult game against one of the best teams in the world and we wanted to show our ideas, our talents, and our power.

  “We made a very good game; we took our chances so we can be happy. We wanted to show that Al Hilal have the power and the talent to be here, and we showed a great mentality.”

  Two-goal hero, Marcos Leonardo, recalled what came to his mind when he beat Manchester City’s goalkeeper, Ederson, saying it made the problems he had had the past two months less important.

“I’ve had a difficult time in the last two months. My mother spent 70 days in the ICU (Intensive Care Unit). Today she’s fine, thank God. When I scored those two goals, I thought of her; she was able to watch the match.

  “We have to think about our families – people who want the best for us. If they weren’t watching, I wouldn’t be here today.”

   Standout midfielder, Sergej Milinkovic-Savic, said the victory has answered the questions posed by those who derided them for choosing to play in the Saudi league. “They criticised us a lot for coming to the Saudi league. But now the results speak for themselves – no need for words.

  “We showed it against Real Madrid, Red Bull Salzburg, FC Pachuca, and tonight. I hope we will continue to show it. Once again, we’ve proven that the Saudi league is strong and deserves respect.”