Asisat Oshoala late assist guarantees Barcelona Super Cup victory over Real Madrid

By Saheed Afolabi

Nigeria international Asisat Oshoala provided a late assist to put the icing on the cake for Barcelona as they thrash Real Madrid Femenino 3-1 in a Super Cup semifinal encounter on Thursday.

The introduction of Oshoala for Geyse Ferreira in the 88th minute added more firepower to Barcelona as the Nigerian made an impact in their progression to the final of the competition.

After a barren first half, the Blaugrana were reduced to 10 players as Irene Paredes was sent off  for a reckless tackle on the hour mark but the setback could not deter the Cup holders from getting the triumph to seal a final spot.

On the day, Claudia Pina put Barcelona ahead through a fantastic effort from the edge of the 18 yard box in the 24th minute. After finding themselves behind at the break, Real Madrid, however, came back on level terms through a brilliant freekick goal from Caroline Weir in the 55th minute to drag the encounter to extra-time.

Mariona Caldentey restored Barcelona lead in the 111th penalty from the penalty spot after Lucy Bronze was hacked down in the 18-yard box.

Substitute Oshoala stole the ball inside the Real Madrid area and dribbled past the goalkeeper before setting up Salma Paralluelo to score Barcelona third goal of the match two minutes from time to dash the hopes of Real Madrid.