Ighalo strikes again to send Al Hilal to King’s Cup semis

The Nigerian international continued his brilliant start to life at the Asian champions with his fourth goal since he completed his move early this year

Odion Ighalo scored a crucial equaliser as Al Hilal came from a goal down to power past Al Nassr 2-1 at the Mrsool Park, Riyadh, in the quarterfinals of the Saudi Arabia King’s Cup.

Cameroon international Vincent Aboubakar provided the ammunition for Brazilian star Talisca to fire Al Nassr into a 17th-minute lead.

And it looked like Miguel Ángel Russo’s men would hold on for a famous victory over the Club World Cup semifinalists.

But Ighalo would have none of that as he changed the tide of the encounter in the 62nd minute when he drew Al Hilal back on levelled terms after pouncing on a fine Saud Abdul Hamid pass.

And Salem Al Dawsari completed the comeback for Ramón Ángel Diaz’s men from the penalty spot ten minutes from time.

Nine-time King’s Cup winners Al Hilal have not lifted the prestigious trophy in over a decade, with the Blue Waves’ last triumph coming in 2020.

It would be recalled that only four days ago, Ighalo smashed in a brace against Al Shabab to guide Al Hilal to a 5-0 win over his former employers.

Added to his goal in the 6-1 demolition of Al Jazira at the Club World Cup, the 32-year-old now has four goals in his first four games for the Royal Club.