1. C2=5 looks promising. However, after A5+6, Red will soon find himself at the end of his rope.
What if Red on the 2nd move makes a discovered check to capture the Black Cannon? He will not survive the overwhelming attack by Black’s Chariot-Pawn duo.
If Black moves his King in response to the initial Chariot check, then R2-1, K6-1, H4=3 and Red has a quick win.
In this routine, the Red Horse must make the right choice at the start (pun intented).