Former Super Eagles striker Odion Ighalo has etched his name into the history books of Saudi Arabian football, becoming Nigeria’s most successful player to ever compete in the Saudi Pro League.
The 34-year-old forward, who played for Al-Wehda, Al-Shabab and Al-Hilal, has officially been recognized as the ninth all-time top scorer in the league’s history and the highest-ranked Nigerian on the list, with a total of 73 goals.
Data from league statistics confirms Ighalo’s dominant run, highlighting his clinical finishing and consistency throughout his time in the Gulf nation.
No other Nigerian player has come close to matching his goal tally in Saudi Arabia’s top flight.
Ighalo’s standout performances particularly during his tenure at Al-Hilal, one of the region’s most successful clubs, helped the team excel in both domestic and continental competitions.
His prolific record also underscores the growing impact of African footballers in the Middle East’s rapidly expanding football scene.
Beyond his contributions on the pitch, Ighalo has become a symbol of Nigerian football excellence abroad, representing his country with pride and professionalism.
Since launching his professional career, Ighalo has played 474 competitive matches across leagues in Europe, Asia, and Africa, netting 198 goals and recording 32 assists.
His impressive strike rate averaging 0.23 goals per 90 minutes, includes stints in the English Premier League, Chinese Super League and major international tournaments with the Nigerian national team.
Although his playing days in Saudi Arabia may be behind him, Ighalo’s achievements there continue to resonate, solidifying his status as one of the league’s most respected foreign imports and a trailblazer for Nigerian strikers abroad.
