Former Super Eagles forward Odion Ighalo has secured his name in Saudi Arabian football history as the most prolific Nigerian player to feature in the country’s top flight.

The 34-year-old striker, who turned out for Al-Wehda, Al-Shabab, and Al-Hilal during his time in the Saudi Pro League, has officially been ranked the 9th-highest goalscorer of all time in the competition.

With 73 goals to his name, Ighalo stands as the highest-placed Nigerian on the league’s all-time scorers’ chart.

Confirming the feat, league statistics show that Ighalo outscored every other Nigerian who has played in the Saudi Pro League, a testament to his consistency and finishing ability.

His record also reflects the increasing influence of African players in the Gulf region’s rapidly expanding football market.

Ighalo’s time in Saudi Arabia brought several standout performances, particularly during his spell with Al-Hilal, where his goals helped the club compete in both domestic and continental competitions.

His impact earned him recognition not only as a reliable goalscorer but also as an ambassador of Nigerian football in Asia.

Beyond his achievements in Saudi Arabia, Ighalo’s wider career numbers underline his remarkable longevity at the highest levels of the game.

Since turning professional, he has made 474 competitive appearances across leagues in Europe, Asia, and Africa. In that time, he has scored 198 goals and contributed 32 assists.

Reflecting on his career, Ighalo’s reputation as a striker has been built on consistency and instinct.

His average of 0.23 goals per 90 minutes highlights his efficiency across different competitions, including stints in the English Premier League, Chinese Super League, and international tournaments with Nigeria.

Although his chapter in Saudi football may have closed, his 73-goal milestone leaves him as one of the league’s most respected foreign imports and secures his place in Nigerian football history as the most successful striker to feature in the Saudi Pro League.