TRABZON, Turkey – Super Eagles striker Paul Onuachu made a clinical return to club duties on Friday, finding the net to help Trabzonspor secure a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Kasımpaşa in the Turkish Süper Lig.
Immediate ImpactReturning to the squad following his international assignment at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), Onuachu began the match on the bench.
He was introduced at the start of the second half, replacing Kazeem Olaigbe in the 46th minute. It took the Nigerian forward just five minutes to make his presence felt.
In the 51st minute, Onuachu capitalized on an assist from Christ Inao Oulaï to open the scoring. The goal marks his 12th of the 2025-2026 season, further cementing his status as one of the league’s most prolific finishers.
Kasımpaşa RespondsThe visitors clawed their way back into the contest in the 61st minute. Fousseni Diabaté finished off a swift counter-attacking move, slotting home a through ball from Irfan Can Kahveci to level the score at 1-1.
Late HeroicsThe match remained deadlocked for over 20 minutes as both sides searched for a decisive blow. The breakthrough finally arrived in the 84th minute when Oleksandr Zubkov struck from the left side of the penalty area.
Zubkov’s winner was set up by fellow Nigerian Anthony Nwakaeme, ensuring all three points remained at Papara Park.
Bronze Medal SuccessOnuachu’s return follows a successful tournament in Morocco, where he was a key member of the Nigerian squad that earned a bronze medal.
The forward contributed a vital goal during the tournament to help the Super Eagles secure their place on the podium before returning to Turkey to continue his stellar club form.