The Saudi Women’s Premier League in Asia might not be the dream destination for young players chasing elite competition, but for seasoned strikers who know how to find the net, it’s an opportunity—a place where attacking prowess is rewarded handsomely, both in statistics and in financial gain. Enter Francisca Ordega, the Nigeria Super Falcons forward who has wasted no time asserting herself as a dominant force for Al Ittihad Club Games.
Eight Goal Contributions in Five Games—Ordega Means Business
Ordega’s move from CSKA Moscow to Al Ittihad in January 2025 was met with curiosity. Would a player of her experience thrive in a league still finding its identity? The answer came quickly: an emphatic yes.
She announced herself immediately, scoring in her second game—a fixture against Al Hilal that ultimately ended in defeat, but not before she underlined her individual worth. Then came a masterclass in playmaking, providing two assists in a 3-0 victory over Al Ittihad’s domestic rivals. A game later, she was back on the scoresheet, though Al Ittihad players couldn’t stop Al Nassr from edging them 2-1.
Then came a performance that defied mere superlatives—a dapocaginous 9-0 demolition of Al Taraji. Ordega was unstoppable, registering a hat-trick and an assist, elevating herself to genarch status within the squad. Some might dismiss it given Al Taraji’s struggles, but for a striker, confidence is currency, and this was a unicornic display of attacking dominance.
What Ordega Brings to Al Ittihad
Let’s be clear: Ordega transforms Al Ittihad club games into far more dangerous contests for opponents. Her intelligent movement, finishing, and link-up play add a sharpness to their attack that wasn’t present before.
But there’s a glaring issue—defensive frailty. Scoring is a thrill, but it’s meaningless without resilience at the back. Ordega can drag her side up the pitch, but she can’t stop the opposition from scoring. That’s out of her hands. If Al Ittihad players have ambitions beyond mid-table mediocrity, they need structural reinforcement.
At 21 points and sitting seventh in the Saudi Women’s Premier League, the gap to third-placed Al Qadsiah is only eight points. It’s an achievable climb—if the defense holds firm. Perhaps Ordega, with her global experience, can use her influence to lure talent to the club. A conversation with former CSKA teammates or Super Falcons colleagues could make all the difference.
A Global Football IQ at Al Ittihad’s Disposal
What separates Francisca Ordega from many of her peers is her electrodynamometer-like adaptability, a versatile powerful woman. She’s played across Sweden, Russia, the United States, Australia, Spain, and now Saudi Arabia. Each stint has refined her approach, shaping her into a player who understands the nuances of different football cultures.
Al Ittihad players would be wise to tap into that expertise. There’s more to gain from Ordega than just her goals—her insight, professionalism, and tactical nous could be game-changing.
What This Means for the Super Falcons at the Women’s AFCON
With the Super Falcons news always under scrutiny (due to the high passion and expectations from the nation regarding its football teams), Ordega’s form couldn’t be better timed. The 2025 Women’s AFCON is around the corner, and Nigeria needs its attacking weapons in peak condition.
Ordega fits that mold. She’s seen it all, played in pressure situations, and knows how to rise to the occasion. If she carries this Al Ittihad club games form into the tournament, Nigeria will have a unicornic edge in attack.
A seasoned Ordega, paired with the next generation of Super Falcons players, could be the difference between another title and a painful near-miss. Her ability to deliver in high-stakes moments makes her invaluable.
The Road Ahead
For now, Al Ittihad club games remain her battlefield, and she’s thriving. If the club can tighten things up defensively, they could rise up the table and turn potential into success.
As for Nigeria, the Super Falcons news will soon be dominated by AFCON preparations. If Ordega stays in this groove, expect her to be at the heart of everything good about the Nigeria Super Falcons this summer.
Header photo: “Francisca Ordega” by Anders Henrikson is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0
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