Odion Ighalo was in action as Al Hilal recorded a memorable 3-2 win over Brazilian giants Flamengo in the semi-finals of the 2022 FIFA Club World Cup on Tuesday.
The Saudi Arabian powerhouse needed penalties to overcome reigning African champions Wydad Casablanca in the previous round and started brightly in the Tanger on Tuesday night, with Salem Al Dawsari netting from the penalty spot in the fourth minute.
Flamengo equalised via Pedro in the 20th minute but Al Hilal responded back in added time of the first half with Al Dawsari scoring another penalty after Gerson was given a second yellow card.
Al Dawsari extend his team’s lead in the second half, this time turning provider for Luciano Vietto in 70th minute. Pedro completed his brace in stoppage time but it was too little too late.
Ighalo was on the pitch for 57 minutes and was replaced by Brazilian forward Michael. The 33-year-old Nigerian also started the previous game against Wydad, playing for 82 minutes before being replaced by Saleh Al Shehri.
It marked his first start early January where he missed four competitive games. The former Watford man has recorded nine goals in all competitions this season.
Ighalo took to social media to celebrate the victory of his team who became the first team from Asia to reach the Club World Cup final where they will meet the winner of Wednesday’s other semi-final between European champions Real Madrid and Egyptian giants Al Ahly.
The 10-time CAF Champions League winners scaled past Auckland City and Seattle Sounders to reach their third consecutive Club World Cup semi-final and fifth overall.
