Odion Ighalo has scored his first hat-trick for Nigeria as the Super Eagles defeated Libya 4-0 on Saturday in their 2019 African Cup of nations qualifier in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.
Ighalo, who currently plays for Chinese club, Changchun Yata, put the Eagles on their way to the emphatic victory with a fourth minute penalty and stuck again in the 58th minute. He completed his hat-trick in the 70th minute before Samuel Kalu completed the rout in the 90th minute.
The result leaves Nigeria second in Group E, a point behind South Africa, who beat Seychelles 6-0 in Johannesburg. The result is South Africa’s biggest winning margin ever and ensures they remain on top of the log going into next round of games.
Libya’s preparation was hampered after the departure of their coach mere days before the game against Nigeria.
In the previous round of games, South Africa drew with Libya at home and defeated the Super Eagles in Nigeria, while Libya beat the group’s scapegoat, Seychelles.
Nigeria failed to qualify for the last two World Cups.