Al-Hilal striker Odion Ighalo shortlisted for Best Player award in West Asia

Former Super Eagles striker Odion Ighalo has been nominated for the prestigious West Asia Player of the Month award for March following a string of impressive performances for Al-Hilal in the Saudi Pro League.

Ighalo, who joined the Saudi Arabian club in 2020, has been a key figure in their title push this season.
The former Manchester United striker has been in sensational form, scoring important goals for Al-Hilal in domestic and international competitions.

The 33-year-old's four goals in as many league games in March were crucial in securing vital victories for his team, and he has continued his rich vein of form into April with a brace against Al Feiha on Tuesday.

Ighalo currently sits atop the top scorer chart with 16 goals, five more than Al Nassr superstar Cristiano Ronaldo.

Ighalo's nomination for the award is well-deserved, but he faces stiff competition from some of the best players in the region. Abdul Razzaq Hamdallah, who plays for Al Ittihad Saudi Arabia, is also a strong contender, scoring five goals in the same month.

Federico Cartabia of Shabab Al-Ahly Dubai and Michael Olunga of Al-Duhail Qatari are also in the running, with both players scoring four goals in March. The other contenders are Ali Adawi of Shabab Al-Dhahiriya Palestinian, Muhammad Daham of Al-Nasr Kuwaiti, and Ernest Barfo of Bahrain Sitra.

The award recognizes the outstanding contributions of players in the West Asian region and considers various factors such as goals, assists, and the importance of matches played. Ighalo's nomination is a testament to his impact on Al-Hilal's campaign this season, and his consistent performances have been crucial in securing victories for his team.