Super Falcons striker Asisat Oshoala was the star of the show on Thursday as she scored a first half brace, but her efforts were not enough to secure all three points for Al Hilal Ladies in a thrilling 3–3 draw with Al Ahli in the Saudi Women’s Premier League.
The Nigerian international’s goals came in a high scoring encounter that saw both teams trade blows at the top end of the pitch in Riyadh. Despite Al Hilal’s strong start, Al Ahli rallied to claim a share of the spoils.
Oshoala opened the scoring in the 31st minute, finishing from close range to put Al Hilal ahead. She then doubled her tally before halftime, calmly converting a penalty after being fouled in the box. Her brace took her tally to eight league goals this season.
Her performance highlighted her continued influence in Saudi women’s football, where she has quickly become one of the most dangerous attackers.
Al Ahli responded to Oshoala’s strikes with resilience. An own goal briefly kept them in the contest, and they reduced the deficit further just before halftime to make it 3–2 at the break. In the second half, the visitors completed their comeback when Naomie Kabakaba set up Fadwa Khaled for the equaliser.
The result leaves Al Hilal third in the Saudi Women’s Premier League standings, level on points with second-placed Al Ittihad and chasing leaders Al Nassr.
Editorial
Asisat Oshoala’s brace in Al Hilal’s 3–3 draw with Al Ahli was a reminder of her world-class quality and attacking instincts. Even in a game where her team conceded three goals, her instinct in front of goal and composure from the penalty spot showcased why she remains one of the premier forwards in women’s football.
Yet football is a team game, and despite Oshoala’s brilliance, Al Hilal’s defence struggled at times in a match that ebbed and flowed dramatically. For Nigerian football fans, it is nonetheless encouraging to see a compatriot dominate the headlines in competitive overseas leagues. Oshoala’s performances in Saudi Arabia continue to raise the profile of Nigerian players abroad and highlight the growing competitiveness of women’s football in the Middle East.
The result might feel like two points dropped for Al Hilal, but it also demonstrated their fighting spirit against a resilient Al Ahli side. As the league season progresses, fine margins like these will be crucial in the title race.
Did You Know?
- Asisat Oshoala scored both of her goals in the first half of the 3–3 Saudi Women’s Premier League draw.
- Oshoala’s brace took her league goals tally to eight this season.
- Al Hilal sit third in the Saudi Women’s Premier League standings after the draw, level with Al Ittihad on points.
- The match featured six goals, highlighting the attacking nature of both teams.
- Oshoala is one of Nigeria’s most decorated female footballers and plays her club football with Al Hilal.
