Super Eagles striker Paul Onuachu made a memorable return from Africa Cup of Nations duty, finding the net to help Trabzonspor claim a 2-1 victory over Kasımpaşa in a key Turkish Süper Lig clash at Papara Park on Friday.
Onuachu was introduced at the start of the second half in place of Kazeem Olaigbe and made an instant impact. Just five minutes after coming off the bench, the 31-year-old produced a composed finish from a finely weighted pass by Christ Inao Oulaï to put the home side ahead in the 51st minute, marking his twelfth league goal of the season.
Kasımpaşa responded strongly and drew level in the 61st minute through a swift break finished by Fousseni Diabaté, who capitalized on an incisive pass to slot past Trabzonspor goalkeeper Onana** and silence the home crowd for a period.
The match looked destined for a draw until veteran Nigerian attacker Anthony Nwakaeme came off the bench and turned provider. In the 84th minute, Nwakaeme’s precise pass set up Oleksandr Zubkov, who fired home the decisive goal to secure all three points for Trabzonspor.
The win lifts Trabzonspor up the Süper Lig standings and keeps them in strong contention among the league’s top sides as the season progresses. The victory was particularly significant given Onuachu’s recent participation with the Super Eagles at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, where he contributed to Nigeria’s run to the bronze medal.
Onuachu’s return adds fresh energy to Trabzonspor’s attacking options. His tally of 12 goals this season reflects his importance to the team and his continued threat in front of goal. Nwakaeme’s experience and creativity have also been crucial, while the composure shown by Zubkov to clinch the win highlights the depth in Trabzonspor’s squad.
The victory will boost the Black Sea Storm’s confidence as they look to build momentum in the second half of the campaign and mount a challenge for top honours in Turkish football.
Leave feedback about this