Izuchukwu Okosi
Romelu Lukaku’s first-half goal gave Chelsea a 1-0 win over Al-Hilal in Abu Dhabi and a place in the Club World Cup final.
Join our WhatsApp ChannelKai Havertz’s left-wing cross was inadvertently headed into Lukaku’s path by Yasser Al Shahrani, and the Belgian fired home.
It was Lukaku’s ninth goal of the season and came after a six-match run without scoring. The big Belgian was perhaps fortunate, as that dreadful defending from Al Hilal defender Al-Shahrani ultimately gifted him a close-range finish in the first half.
The official FIFA website had an interesting description of the performance of Nigeria striker Odion Ighalo in the game.
“Al Hilal’s trophy dream may be over at UAE 2021, but how they must be salivating over what Odion Ighalo may do in their hallowed blue shirt,” FIFA.com noted.
“After a superb debut against Al Jazira, the Nigeria striker tormented Chelsea with his strength, ability to turn and two breathtaking flicks.”
Havertz later hit the post in a game dominated by Chelsea, who will face Brazilian side Palmeiras in the final on Saturday.
Blues boss Thomas Tuchel was not at the game as he is isolating after recently testing positive for Covid-19.
Izuchukwu Okosi is a Nigerian sports and entertainment journalist with two decades of experience in the media industry having begun his media journey in 2002 as an intern at Mundial Sports International (MSI) and Africa Independent Television (AIT), owners of Daar Communications Plc.
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