Super Falcons striker Asisat Oshoala once again proved decisive for Al Hilal Women, inspiring a comeback 2-1 victory over Al Qadsiah Women in the first leg of their SAFF Women’s Cup semi-final on Thursday.
Al Hilal found themselves behind early in the contest, but Oshoala took charge when it mattered most.
Oshoala Inspires Al Hilal Comeback
She struck the equaliser to restore parity before setting up the winning goal, turning the game around and giving her side a crucial advantage ahead of the return leg.
The Nigerian forward’s form has been outstanding in recent weeks, with her latest contribution taking her tally to 10 goal involvements in her last seven appearances.
She has also scored 12 times in the Saudi Women’s Premier League this season, underlining her consistency in front of goal.
Across all competitions, Oshoala has now registered 26 goal contributions, including multiple assists in both the league and domestic cup.
The former Barcelona star has hit 20 goals overall, with several coming in the Saudi Women’s Challenge Cup and the Saudi Women’s Cup.
Al Qadsiah had gone in front in the 14th minute after an own goal by Nouf Saud and held their lead into halftime.
However, Oshoala brought Al Hilal level midway through the second half before assisting Jéssica Silva, who netted the winner to complete the comeback.
Kanu Saves the Day for Cruz Azul
In Mexico, fellow Super Falcons forward Uchenna Kanu made her mark for Cruz Azul Femenil, scoring a late equaliser in their 1-1 draw against Monterrey Femenil in the Liga MX Femenil Clausura playoff quarter-final first leg.
Cruz Azul had trailed for most of the game after Valeria del Campo gave Monterrey the lead in the 18th minute.
As the match neared its end, Kanu stepped up under pressure and converted a stoppage-time penalty to earn her side a valuable draw.
The 28-year-old is enjoying a strong run of form, with seven goals in her last six matches, bringing her total to 12 for the season.
Both ties remain open, with the second legs set to be played in the coming days.