Former Super Eagles striker Odion Ighalo made his long-awaited debut for English giants, Manchester United on Monday, February 17. Indeed, the former Watford striker made history, becoming the first Nigerian to play for United in England’s top-flight.
Equally important, Odion Ighalo would have further written his name into United history in the match; had he shown more clinical finishing in front of goal. The Nigerian striker nearly scored a goal after coming off the bench to make his Manchester United debut; in their 2-0 win over Chelsea on Monday.
Indeed, Odion Ighalo was introduced as a 91st-minute substitute for Anthony Martial.
He would be making his first appearance for Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s side after returning to England; on the transfer deadline day in January.
Meanwhile, minutes after his introduction, the former Watford attacker had a chance to stretch Manchester United’s lead. However, his effort was saved by Chelsea keeper, Willy Caballero.
ALSO READ: Coronavirus Alert: Striker Ighalo cleared, fit for United’s Europa trip
In fact, it was a gilt-edged opportunity for the striker to become an instant fan’s favourite. Further, his debut elicited huge reactions on social media. As a matter of fact, many Nigerians took to micro-blogging site, Twitter, to express their thoughts. The majority rued the missed chance, even as they noted that it would have elevated Odion Ighalo.
Meanwhile, 1st News has put together some of the reactions on the subject.
Even Nigeria Chelsea fans wanted Ighalo To score that Goal, we would have celebrated together…..??
— Engineer Tolu Tezzy_ ? (@tolutezzy_) February 17, 2020
I almost came…
Imagine if Ighalo scored this on his debut, to become the cherry on the top. pic.twitter.com/GS2Auh5D39
— LOVE UNITED HATE GLAZER (@UTDLui) February 17, 2020
IGHALO WHAT THE FUCK MAN THAT WAS OUR MOMENT
— Ali. (@UtdAlii) February 17, 2020
Chelsea fans are lucky Ighalo didn’t score there. Would’ve been unrecoverable for them on this app ?
— Josh (@UtdJL) February 17, 2020
A big moment for Odion Ighalo who became the 200th player to make an appearance for Manchester Utd in the Premier League, and the first Nigerian to do so.#PL #CHEMUN pic.twitter.com/3eRroLBsXi
— SuperSport ? (@SuperSportTV) February 17, 2020
I would've celebrated like mad if Ighalo scored that. It wasn't to be though ?
— RiZzy? (@RiZzyUTD) February 17, 2020
Meanwhile, Manchester United had come away with a sweet away victory in the tie. French striker, Anthony Martial had put the Red Devils ahead in the first half. Defender, Harry Maguire scored the second in the second half. Chelsea rallied but found it hard to breach the United defence.
Also, they had two goals chalked off by the VAR.
