Manchester United striker Odion Ighalo was voted Man of the Match after opening the scoring in the 5-0 victory over LASK and leading the line with authority.
The Nigerian, who is on loan from Shanghai Greeland Shenhua, also provided the assist for the second goal, finished by Daniel James, and was unlucky not to add to his personal tally when showing great strength before rolling his effort against a post.
Ighalo’s fourth goal since arriving on deadline day in January was a thing of absolute beauty.
He took three touches to juggle a pass by Bruno Fernandes on the edge of the area in order to work his way into a shooting position. With tremendous venom, the centre-forward hammered his drive in off the underside of the bar for a strike that deserved more attention than it received in a virtually empty stadium due to the tie being played behind closed doors.
Despite the healthy competition for the award, the hit-man gained half of the votes cast to finish clear of Fernandes in second spot and third-placed Fred.
It is the second time he has scooped the accolade, after also starring in the Emirates FA Cup triumph at Derby County.
Supporters are now able to vote for any of the players on show but Ighalo was the undisputed main man on Thursday evening in Linz.
MAN-OF-THE MATCH RESULT
1. Odion Ighalo – 50%
2. Bruno Fernandes – 19%
3. Fred – 12%
Based on votes cast in the Official App.
