Nigerian forward takes season tally to 23 goals after semifinal masterclass
Super Falcons striker Asisat Oshoala delivered another sensational performance on Thursday night, scoring a hat-trick to lead Al Hilal Women to a commanding 5-1 victory over Al Qadsiah Women and secure qualification for the Saudi Women’s Cup final.
The Nigerian forward was the standout performer as Al Hilal completed a dominant 7-2 aggregate triumph in the semifinal tie after carrying a narrow first-leg advantage into the decisive encounter.
Oshoala opened the scoring with a composed finish before adding her second goal just before halftime to restore Al Hilal’s cushion after Al Qadsiah briefly threatened a comeback through Cameroon international Ajara Nchout.
The former FC Barcelona Femení striker completed her hat-trick in the second half with another clinical finish from inside the box, continuing her remarkable scoring form since arriving in Saudi Arabia.
Beyond her three goals, Oshoala also won a late penalty which Moroccan midfielder Ghizlane Chebbak converted to cap an emphatic away victory for Al Hilal.
The six-time CAF African Women’s Player of the Year has now recorded 23 goals and six assists across all competitions this season, underlining her importance to the Saudi club’s impressive campaign.
The latest performance means the Nigerian international has scored in four consecutive matches while registering at least one goal contribution in each of her last six games.
Since leaving the United States and joining Al Hilal, Oshoala has quickly established herself as one of the biggest stars in the Saudi Women’s Premier League, bringing her vast experience from spells with Arsenal W.F.C., Liverpool F.C. Women and Barcelona.
Al Hilal will now face either Al Nassr Women or Al Ula Women in the final as they continue their push for silverware in Saudi Arabia.
Oshoala’s impressive form will also excite Nigerian football fans ahead of upcoming Super Falcons assignments, with the experienced striker showing no signs of slowing down despite another demanding season abroad.