The clash between Al Hilal and Al-Nassr is more than just a battle for points. It’s a riveting showdown of champions in the Saudi Pro League. As the anticipated derby nears, fans feel the absence of Neymar Jr. However, there is one more critical player out of contention in Odion Ighalo. The Al Hilal faithful will deeply feel the omission of their former player, who haunted Al-Nassr for quite some time.

Usually, it’s not always the marquee names that leave an indelible mark. This article dives into the secret weapon of Al-Hilal, which their fans will dearly miss. This narrative goes beyond the stardom of Cristiano Ronaldo and Neymar.

Fans will miss the former Al Hilal star who tormented Al Nassr!

Odion Ighalo, the 34-year-old Nigerian forward, plied his trade with Al Hilal for two seasons between 2021 and 2023. In Al Hilal’s recent history, Ighalo emerges as a figure of sheer dominance, and his impact was profound, especially when facing Al Nassr–a team he consistently haunted.

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The Nigerian striker boasted an impressive overall record with 43 goals in 60 appearances but also held an uncanny prowess, specifically against Al Nassr. Throughout his two-year spell with Al Hilal, he crossed paths with Al Nassr four times and found the back of the net in every encounter. His five goals in those matches were instrumental in Al Hilal’s unbeaten streak against their rivals.

Al Hilal never tasted defeat against derby rivals Al Alami when Ighalo led the charge. It showcases the importance the Nigerian forward had in the squad. His presence was a constant threat to Al Nassr’s defense. His ability to find the back of the net with clinical precision made him a nightmare for their backline.

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Ighalo’s departure from Al Hilal last summer was a severe blow to the club. However, his absence in the upcoming derby could have a considerable advantage for Cristiano Ronaldo’s Al Nassr.

Al Alami’s opportunity to capitalize in the title race

With Ighalo out of the picture, Al Alami can exploit Al Hilal’s weakened attack. Cristiano Ronaldo has been in scintillating form this season and will undoubtedly be Al Nassr’s primary attacking threat. However, fans should not underestimate Al Hilal’s attacking prowess. They also possess a formidable attacking line-up capable of causing Al Alami problems.

The clash of these two powerhouses promises a spectacle, where Al Hilal seeks to maintain their dominance, while Al-Nassr aims to challenge for the title. As the derby unfolds, the question remains: Can Al Hilal overcome the absence of Al Nassr’s ‘biggest nightmare’ and continue their relentless pursuit of victory? It’ll be interesting to see.

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