Early Final? The Death of Diego Jota Shakes Al Hilal 💔 & Hakimi’s Ballon d'Or Bid 😱
The FIFA Club World Cup delivered an unforgettable week of emotion, drama, and controversy. From Al Hilal’s painful exit to Achraf Hakimi’s brilliance, this tournament had it all. But above all, the tragic death of Al Hilal's Diego Jota and his brother cast a dark shadow over Saudi football.
Tragedy Strikes: Diego Jota and Brother Killed in Car Accident
Before Al Hilal’s quarter-final match against Fluminense, tragedy struck as team member Diego Jota and his brother André lost their lives in a devastating car accident. The emotional toll on the squad was evident, especially for close teammates like João Cancelo and Rúben Neves, who struggled to perform. Neves, though heartbroken, managed a respectable game, while Cancelo made critical errors that led to goals.
Football is not just tactics—it’s mental and emotional. The players tried to stay strong, but the loss clearly affected the team deeply.
Al Hilal’s Club World Cup Dream Ends in Controversy
Al Hilal crashed out after a 2-1 defeat to Fluminense, in what many fans called a “refereeing disaster.” The Saudi side had just eliminated Manchester City in a heroic battle and seemed destined for the final. However, misjudgment and complacency—thinking the hardest part was over—cost them dearly.
Coach Simone Inzaghi made unexpected changes, including starting Cancelo and Neves despite their emotional state. Meanwhile, tactical errors and defensive lapses allowed Fluminense to capitalize. Despite dominating stretches of the match and having more scoring opportunities, Al Hilal fell short.
Goalkeeper Yassine Bounou was a shining light, making world-class saves and earning the admiration of fans across the Arab world.
Referee Decisions Steal the Spotlight
Controversial decisions by Dutch referee Danny Makkelie drew outrage. Two clear penalties were denied, one on Leonardo in the first half and another on Koulibaly in stoppage time, which instead resulted in a yellow card for simulation. Many experts and former officials later agreed that Al Hilal were unfairly treated.
Fluminense’s Organized Performance
Despite being the underdogs, Fluminense earned their place in the semi-finals through disciplined defending, veteran leadership from Thiago Silva (41), and a stellar performance by goalkeeper Fábio (44), who made 14 saves throughout the tournament.
Chelsea’s Quiet March Continues
Chelsea quietly eliminated Palmeiras 2-1, advancing to face Fluminense. The match saw future Chelsea player Stevao score a stunning equalizer against his future club. In typical fashion, Chelsea played with calm and clinical precision, reminiscent of their Champions League victories in 2012 and 2021.
PSG vs Bayern: Match of the Tournament
Paris Saint-Germain’s 2-0 victory over Bayern Munich was arguably the best match of the tournament. Playing with just nine men, PSG stunned the German giants with grit, discipline, and brilliance—especially from Achraf Hakimi.
Hakimi delivered a moment of magic, beating three defenders and assisting Dembélé for the second goal. Dembélé, who missed several key chances earlier, paid tribute to Diego Jota in his celebration, highlighting the deep emotion tied to the match.
The match featured everything: intense pressing, fast transitions, elite tactical battles, and incredible goalkeeping from Donnarumma and Neuer.
Is Hakimi a Ballon d'Or Contender?
With 26 goal contributions this season, Hakimi has surpassed Dani Alves' best season totals. His performances from right-back are among the best in world football, and some fans now believe he should be among the top 10 Ballon d'Or nominees this year.
Real Madrid Advances, But Warning Signs Emerge
Real Madrid overcame Borussia Dortmund 3-2, but only after late drama. Although they started strong and scored early, defensive lapses in the final minutes almost allowed Dortmund to complete a comeback.
Thibaut Courtois saved the day with a miracle save in stoppage time, sparking flashbacks to his legendary save against Sadio Mané in the 2022 Champions League final.
PSG vs Real Madrid: The Real Final
Fans are calling the upcoming PSG vs Real Madrid semi-final the real final of the Club World Cup. With world-class talent, iconic managers, and emotional stakes, this match could easily outshine the official final.
Luis Enrique’s deep tactical knowledge and PSG’s resilience could give them the edge, despite injuries to Lucas Hernandez and Patche. If Paris can overcome Madrid, they may well go on to lift their first-ever Club World Cup trophy.
This tournament has been full of emotion and surprises. From the tragic loss of Diego Jota to Hakimi’s rise and controversial refereeing—football once again reminds us it’s more than just a game.