Man City score controversial opening goal against Al Hilal with Saudi side furious after VAR decision – and supporters BOO referee’s explanation

Manchester City scored a controversial opening goal against Al Hilal in their Club World Cup last-16 showdown – leading to the referee being roundly booed.

Bernardo Silva put City ahead after just nine minutes in Orlando after he was first to meet a rebound, and he slotted calmly into the net from a matter of yards.

Rayan Ait-Nouri and Tijjani Reijnders, two of City’s big-name summer signings, combined sharply in the build-up, before the full back’s cross deflected to Silva. 

However, the Saudi side furiously protested the goal, believing that Ait-Nouri had clearly handballed seconds before Silva poked over the line. 

Replays of the incident were even flashed up on the big screens around the stadium and a loud roar of disapproval went up from large sections of the crowd.

Al-Hilal players surrounded referee Jesus Valenzuela while VAR checked the flashpoint, but the on-field decision was eventually allowed to stand.

Manchester City scored a controversial opening goal against Al Hilal at the Club World Cup

The Saudi side were furious after this apparent handbal from Rayan Ait-Nouri in the build-up

They furiously surrounded referee Jesus Valenzuela to protest the decision

Valenzuela then explained his call using his microphone, but his message was almost drowned out by the continuing protests around him and unhappiness in the crowd.

Limited replays of the potential handball were shown on live TV but there certainly appeared to be contact with Ait-Nouri’s arm as he moved into the penalty area.

City carved out a number of golden chances in the opening 45 minutes but Al Hilal goalkeeper Yassine Bounou was equal to them, making several eye-catching saves.

They were then floored after conceding two quickfire goals after the half-time restart, Marcos Leonardo and Malcom both netting to threaten a stunning upset. 

The returning Erling Haaland, however, spared City’s blushes after pouncing on Manuel Akanji’s knockdown from a corner to sweep home.

Pep Guardiola’s side would face Brazilian side Fluminense in the quarter-finals should they progress, setting up a potential semi-final meeting with Chelsea.