With AFCON Looming, Onuachu’s Scoring Form Puts Pressure on Eric Chelle

With AFCON Looming, Onuachu’s Scoring Form Puts Pressure on Eric Chelle

By BSN Sports 

Nigeria striker Paul Onuachu delivered a standout performance on Sunday, scoring twice to inspire Trabzonspor to a 3–1 comeback victory over Konyaspor a display that could boost his chances of a recall to the Super Eagles ahead of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

Onuachu, who was named Man of the Match, struck in both halves to raise his season tally to 11 goals, the tenth from the penalty spot and one from open play. His brace lifted Trabzonspor to within a point of joint league leaders Galatasaray and Fenerbahce, adding further intrigue to the Turkish Super Lig title race ahead of Monday’s highly anticipated Galatasaray versus Fenerbahce derby.

The 30-year-old entered the fixture with nine goals to his name, but Sunday’s clinical display reaffirmed his sharpness, aerial dominance, and composure in front of goal. His form now places him ahead of Galatasaray forward Victor Osimhen in the league scoring charts, subtly intensifying the competition among Nigerian strikers ahead of AFCON.

Trabzonspor goalkeeper Andre Onana also impressed with several crucial saves, but it was Onuachu’s attacking influence that ultimately shaped the result.

With Nigeria expected to name a preliminary AFCON 2025 squad in the coming weeks, Onuachu’s form presents a strong argument for his return to the national setup. While Osimhen remains central to Nigeria’s attack, the Trabzonspor forward’s consistency and efficiency offer head coach Eric Chelle an alternative option as the Super Eagles prepare for the continental showpiece in Morocco.