Staff Reporter.
Manchester City have become the fourth English team to win FIFA’s Club World Cup after a 4-0 win over Brazilian side Fluminense in Saudi Arabia.
Julian Alvarez opened the scoring in the second minute before an own goal, a strike from Phil Foden, and a second late on from Alvarez secured a comprehensive victory for the Treble winners.
Pep Guardiola’s side, taking part in the tournament after winning last season’s Champions League, made the ideal start as Alvarez struck inside the first minute, chesting in from close range after Nathan Ake’s long-range strike hit the post.
They added a second before the break when Nino turned Foden’s cross into the back of his own net.
Foden then got on the scoresheet himself in the second half when he darted through the middle to prod in Alvarez’s cross, before the Argentine forward got his second in the 88th minute with a clinical strike into the far corner.
Success meant City emulated Manchester United, Liverpool and Chelsea in lifting the Club World Cup, but became the first English side to win five trophies in a calendar year.
The Treble of Premier League, FA Cup and Champions League last season was followed by the Uefa Super Cup in August.
But some of the shine was taken off their victory by the sight of Rodri – so influential for the side – going off injured towards the end of the second half.
Meanwhile, Egyptian side Al Ahly claimed third place with a 4-2 win against Urawa Red Diamonds of Japan.
Compiled by Lehlohonolo Lehana.