Ighalo Receives High Marks For Brace Against Derby County In FA Cup Clash

Published: March 06, 2020

Former Nigeria international Odion Ighalo on Thursday night showed some of his critics why they need to be calm as he produced two well taken goals which helped Manchester United reach the quarterfinals of the Emirates FA Cup.

The 30-year-old Ighalo was a January acquisition from Chinese club Shanghai Shenshua and saw his move hugely questioned by many football faithful.

The top scorer at the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations with five goals grabbed his two goals against the Rams that paraded United legend Wayne Rooney in the 41st and 70th minutes.

The Nigerian's performance elicited glowing remarks from the English press.

The Independent wrote of their assessment of the Nigerian.

"Odion Ighalo - 8: Took both his goals extremely well, was strong in the air, and could well have had a hat-trick."

With a 9 out of 10, the former Nigeria international was the top rated player by the Mirror.

''MOTM Put himself around to considerable effect, looked sharp and fully deserved his goals," the newspaper wrote.

The4thofficial.net handed Ighalo 8 out of 10 for his brilliant performance against the Rams.

"Odion Ighalo – 8.

"The Nigerian striker picked up a commendable brace on the night, as he displayed the quality he possesses in the box. Showed good awareness as well as reaction ahead of both his goals."

Manchester Evening News gave Ighalo an eight, writing "Squandered an excellent chance at 0-0 but atoned with his second goal in six appearances. Then got another in the second-half. 8".

Ighalo's first goal for United came in the Europa League Round of 32 fixture with Belgian side Club Brugge last week.

Aside the two goals, the Nigerian had the best chance in the first half but saw a close shot saved by the opposition goalkeeper.

Izuchukwu Okosi