# Odion Ighalo

> Nigerian association football player

**Wikidata**: [Q928969](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q928969)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Odion_Ighalo)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/odion-ighalo

## Summary
Odion Ighalo is a Nigerian association football player known for his professional career in both domestic and international leagues. He gained prominence for his goal-scoring ability and contributions to teams in Nigeria, Europe, and Asia.

## Biography
- Born: June 16, 1989
- Nationality: Nigeria
- Education: Not specified
- Known for: Professional football career and goal-scoring record
- Employer(s): Various clubs including Udinese, Granada, Watford, Changchun Yatai, Shanghai Shenhua, and others
- Field(s): Association Football

## Contributions
Odion Ighalo has made significant contributions to football through his professional playing career, including:
- Scoring goals across multiple leagues in Europe, Africa, and Asia
- Representing Nigeria in international competitions, including the Africa Cup of Nations
- Contributing to team successes in various domestic leagues and cup competitions
- Earning recognition for his performance during key tournaments and seasons

His career spans over a decade, with documented appearances and goals in top-tier competitions.

## FAQs
### Where has Odion Ighalo played professionally?
Odion Ighalo has played for several clubs including Udinese in Italy, Granada in Spain, Watford in England, Changchun Yatai and Shanghai Shenhua in China, among others.

### What is Odion Ighalo's nationality?
He is Nigerian, born in Lagos, Nigeria.

### When did Odion Ighalo start his professional football career?
His professional career began around 2007, as indicated by his work period start date.

### What position does Odion Ighalo play?
He primarily plays as a striker, known for his goal-scoring ability.

### Has Odion Ighalo played for the Nigerian national team?
Yes, he has represented Nigeria in international competitions, including the Africa Cup of Nations.

## Why They Matter
Odion Ighalo matters in the world of football due to his consistent goal-scoring record and adaptability across different leagues and countries. His performances have contributed to team successes and have elevated his profile in African and international football. His journey reflects the global nature of modern football and the impact of African talent on the sport.

## Notable For
- Playing as a striker for various professional football clubs
- Representing Nigeria in international football competitions
- Scoring goals consistently across different leagues
- Playing key roles in teams' successes in domestic and continental competitions
- Being recognized for his adaptability and performance in diverse football environments

## Body

### Early Life and Career Beginnings
Odion Jude Ighalo was born on June 16, 1989, in Lagos, Nigeria. He began his professional football career in 2007, playing in local Nigerian leagues before moving to European and international clubs. His early career was marked by his physical presence and goal-scoring ability, which helped him stand out in competitive environments.

### Professional Career
Ighalo's professional journey includes stints at several clubs:
- **Udinese (Italy)**: Played in Serie A, gaining experience in one of Europe's top leagues.
- **Granada (Spain)**: Featured in La Liga, contributing to the team's offensive efforts.
- **Watford (England)**: Became a key player in the English Championship and Premier League, known for his clinical finishing.
- **Changchun Yatai (China)**: Played in the Chinese Super League, continuing his goal-scoring form.
- **Shanghai Shenhua (China)**: Further established himself in Asian football, contributing to the team's performance.

His career statistics include:
- 2 goals in 2.0 appearances for one of his clubs
- Consistent performance across different footballing cultures and leagues

### International Career
Odion Ighalo has represented Nigeria in international competitions, including:
- Africa Cup of Nations appearances
- Contributions to Nigeria's World Cup campaigns
- Scoring crucial goals in continental tournaments

### Recognition and Impact
Throughout his career, Ighalo has been recognized for:
- His goal-scoring consistency
- Adaptability to different playing styles and leagues
- Leadership on the field
- Representing Nigerian football on the global stage

His impact extends beyond statistics, influencing younger players and contributing to the visibility of African footballers in international leagues. His career trajectory reflects the journey of many African talents who have made their mark globally.

## References

1. Transfermarkt
2. FBref
3. As
4. BDFutbol
5. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013
6. [Source](http://usa.worldfootball.net/team_performance/nigeria-team/wm-2018-in-russland/)
7. FIFA.com
8. Quora