Diaspora, Africa – (African Boulevard News) – Nigerian striker Odion Ighalo has suffered another major trophy disappointment as his team, Al Hilal, lost the AFC Champions League to Japanese giants Urawa Red Diamonds in a closely fought battle at the Saitama Stadium 2002. Urawa Red Diamonds won 1-0 in the second leg of the final to secure a 2-1 aggregate victory.
Ighalo, who joined the Saudi Arabian club in January, had been hoping to add an AFC Champions League title to his impressive trophy cabinet, which includes the Africa Cup of Nations and the Chinese FA Cup. However, the former Manchester United striker was unable to guide his team to victory, as they were outplayed by Urawa Red Diamonds in both legs of the final.
The Japanese side dominated the first leg in Riyadh, winning 1-0 thanks to a goal from Brazilian forward Rafael Silva. Al Hilal could not find an equalizer, despite having a man advantage for much of the second half.
In the second leg, Urawa Red Diamonds once again started strongly, with Yuki Muto scoring the only goal of the game in the 17th minute. Al Hilal tried to mount a comeback, but Urawa Red Diamonds held on for a hard-fought victory.
The defeat will be a bitter pill to swallow for Ighalo, who had made a significant impact since joining Al Hilal. The Nigerian striker had scored five goals in the competition, including a crucial goal in the quarter-finals against Persepolis.
Despite the disappointment, Ighalo took to social media to congratulate Urawa Red Diamonds on their victory. “Congratulations to Urawa Red Diamonds for winning the AFC Champions League. Well done to my teammates for fighting until the end. We gave it our all but it wasn’t to be,” he tweeted.
The defeat marks the second time Ighalo has missed out on a major trophy this season, having lost the Saudi Professional League title to Al Ahli earlier this month. However, the 32-year-old will be hoping to bounce back in the upcoming season and help his team secure silverware.
The loss also marks a disappointing end to Al Hilal’s campaign, who were hoping to add a third AFC Champions League title to their trophy cabinet. The Saudi Arabian club last won the competition in 2019.
Overall, the AFC Champions League final was a thrilling encounter, with Urawa Red Diamonds deserving winners after a dominant display over both legs.
