Super Falcons winger, Francisca Ordega was on the scoresheet, while Ashleigh Plumptre captained, as Al-Ittihad Ladies secured a place in the Saudi Women’s Premier Challenge Cup semi-finals with a 6–1 win over NEOM on Sunday.
The victory displayed Al-Ittihad’s superiority in Group B, sealing qualification with maximum points and setting up a high-profile semi-final showdown.
Ordega Strikes Again Against Familiar Opponents
Al-Ittihad was in control of the game from the kickoff, with Leticia Nunes opening the scoring to give her side an early advantage.
The lead was doubled in the 30th minute when Francisca Ordega finished clinically to make it 2–0.
The goal continued Ordega’s fine record against NEOM, having also found the net against them in their previous league meeting.
Her strike ensured Al-Ittihad went into the break firmly in command, carrying a two-goal cushion into half-time.
Plumptre Marshals the Defence with Authority
At the heart of Al-Ittihad’s control was Ashleigh Plumptre, who captained the side from the first whistle.
Wearing the armband, the Nigerian international led by organising the back line, communicating effectively, and ensuring defensive discipline throughout the contest.
Plumptre’s leadership was instrumental in keeping NEOM at bay, limiting their attacking opportunities and maintaining Al-Ittihad’s dominance across both halves.
Second-Half Rout Seals Qualification
Any hopes of a NEOM comeback were extinguished early in the second half, when an own goal shortly after the restart extended Al-Ittihad’s lead and shifted the contest decisively in their favour.
From that point on, Lina Boussaha took centre stage and Al-Ittihad turned their dominance into a rout.
The attacking midfielder produced a devastating display, scoring a hat-trick. NEOM were only able to muster a late consolation goal, offering little resistance as the gulf in quality became evident.
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Semi-Final Clash Set in Riyadh
The result confirmed Al-Ittihad’s second-place finish in Group B, with maximum points from two matches, and booked their place in the semi-finals.
They will now face Al Nassr, scheduled for Wednesday, 17 December 2025, at the Inaya Medical Colleges Stadium in Riyadh.
In the other semi-final, Nigerian star power and six-time African Player of the Year Asisat Oshoala lined up for Al Hilal against Al Ahli, scoring an hatrick to seal a 5-0 win, securing the team’s spot in the semi finals.
