Odion Ighalo upbeat about winning first Asian Champions League final with Al Hilal

The 33-year-old will hope to lead Saudi Arabia Professional Football League champions, Al Hilal to victory when they host Japanese side, Urawa Red Diamonds.

The Nigerian is expected to lead the line for Blue Waves as he see to extend his fine scoring form, having scored seven times in the competition this season as only Al Duhail’s Edmilson Junior has more goals (eight).

The forward is delighted with the chance to compete in the final and is looking forward to making it a memorable one as he reveals his excitement and desire to lift the title for the first time.

“We have prepared well throughout this season and played tough matches before the final, which gives us tremendous confidence to give our maximum energy to win the title,” Ighalo told media.

“I will participate in my first final in this tournament and I am very happy about it. I have talked to my fellow players about the previous finals, and we will fight to win the title.

“We know the match is not easy and we will face a strong team. I and my teammates will do our best to achieve victory.”

Al Hilal have won the Asian Champions League title twice in the past and Ighalo now has the chance to win his second title with Ramon Diaz’s side after winning the Saudi Arabia Professional Football League title with the club.