Super Falcons defender Ashleigh Plumptre produced a sensational display, scoring once and providing three assists as Al Ittihad thrashed Jeddah 13-1 in the Saudi Arabia Women’s Cup on Friday.
The emphatic victory secured Al Ittihad’s place in the quarter-finals of the competition, which is in only its second edition after being introduced during the 2023/24 season. Softfootball gathered that Plumptre played a starring role in the first-half demolition before being rested at the interval.
The Nigerian international set the tone early by providing the assist for Al Ittihad’s second goal in the fourth minute before getting on the scoresheet herself in the 15th minute to make it 5-0.
Plumptre continued to torment the opposition, setting up her side’s seventh goal in the 29th minute before registering another assist for the ninth goal deep into first-half stoppage time.
Having delivered a dominant performance in the opening 45 minutes, the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup star was substituted before the second half as Al Ittihad comfortably saw out the victory.
Plumptre has continued to impress since joining the Saudi club. In her debut league campaign, she scored eight goals in just 12 appearances, underlining her attacking threat despite primarily playing in defence.
The former Leicester City defender missed the Super Falcons’ campaign at the Paris 2024 Olympics after suffering a serious injury but has since returned strongly to action.
Plumptre’s impressive display will be a major boost for both Al Ittihad and the Super Falcons as she continues to rediscover her best form following her return from injury.
