Oshoala hat-trick powers Al Hilal into Challenge Cup semi-finals

Asisat Oshoala produced a clinical hat-trick to lead Al Hilal to a dominant 5–0 victory over Eastern Flames on Saturday, and it sealed their place in the semi-finals of the Saudi Women’s Premier Challenge Cup.

The six-time African Women’s Player of the Year once again showed her class as she delivered a big performance that made it clear her influence since joining the Riyadh-based club.

Al Hilal set the tone early at the Al Taraji Club Stadium, as they controlled possession and kept pressure on their opponents. Oshoala broke the deadlock in the first half, finishing confidently after sustained attacking play to give her side a deserved lead.

Agba baller then struck again shortly after the restart, showing composure in front of goal to double Al Hilal’s advantage as Eastern Flames struggled to contain the home side’s intensity.

Oshoala completed her hat-trick late in the contest, scoring Al Hilal’s fourth goal to cap a commanding individual display and register her first hat-trick of the season. Two further goals ensured a comprehensive scoreline that reflected Al Hilal’s dominance throughout the match.

The win saw Al Hilal finish second in Group A that then confirmed their progression to the knockout phase of the competition also reinforcing their status as strong contenders for the Challenge Cup title.