Paul Onauchu's Spectacular Goal Against Fenerbahce Propels Him to Top of Turkish Super Lig Scoring Chart
Super Eagles forward Paul Onauchu delivered a remarkable performance for Trabzonspor in their Turkish Super Lig clash against Fenerbahce, scoring a crucial goal that has solidified his position as the league's leading scorer in the 2025/26 season. The Nigerian international found the net just before halftime in a tightly contested match that ultimately ended 3-2 in favor of Fenerbahce at Papara Park on Saturday, February 14.
Trabzonspor's Valiant Effort Against Fenerbahce
The match began with Trabzonspor taking an early lead in the sixth minute when Chibuike Nwaiwu's long throw found Ernest Muci, who expertly chipped the ball over goalkeeper Ederson. Fenerbahce responded nine minutes later with Anderson Talisca equalizing following an assist from Ismail Yuksek. The visitors then took the lead in the 34th minute through Kerem Akturkoglu's goal, initiated by Yuksek and assisted by Marco Asensio.
Just before halftime, Trabzonspor drew level when Lovik's cross from the left located Onauchu in the penalty area, and the Nigerian striker's powerful header beat Ederson to make it 2-2. Fenerbahce secured the winning goal in the 65th minute, while Onauchu nearly grabbed a dramatic late equalizer in the 77th minute, but his header sailed over the crossbar.
Onauchu Emerges as Turkish Super Lig's Top Scorer
With his goal against Fenerbahce, Paul Onauchu has now scored 16 goals in the Turkish Super Lig this season, placing him at the top of the scoring chart. The 31-year-old striker has achieved this impressive tally despite missing four weeks of league action due to his participation in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, where he scored against Uganda in the group stage.
Onauchu has now surpassed Galatasaray forward Victor Osimhen, who trails his compatriot by seven goals in the race for the Golden Boot. This achievement marks a significant milestone for the former Southampton striker, who previously won the Golden Boot and Player of the Season awards in Belgium during the 2020/21 campaign with 33 goals.
Nigerian Football Fans React to Onauchu's Impressive Form
Nigerian football enthusiasts have expressed their admiration for Onauchu's outstanding performances this season. Social media platforms have been flooded with praise for the striker's goal-scoring prowess and consistency.
@minospeed007 commented: "He is a goal machine and a great finisher. Unfortunately, he fails to deliver when playing for the Super Eagles. He needs to move to Europe, perhaps to Spain or France, to gain the global recognition he deserves. He is a world-class striker who shouldn't be wasting his peak years in the Turkish league."
@Feftyone wrote: "Paul Onauchu is an absolute beast. Sixteen goals leading the Turkish Super Lig top scorers for Trabzonspor, even after missing four weeks for AFCON duty. And don't forget that monster 33-goal Golden Boot and Player of the Season performance in Belgium 20/21. The Tower is back!"
@Karungisera2 added: "Great guy that one. Fun fact: He holds the record for the fastest goal in Nigerian international history, scoring just 10 seconds into his first full start against Egypt in 2019. Some reports even timed the strike as early as five to seven seconds."
@RonKahu20658 said: "Paul Onauchu, mastering the art of the strategic sabbatical. Four weeks at AFCON, back to Trabzonspor, still topping Super Lig with 16 goals. Efficiency level: CEO. Towering talent! I think Arsenal needs his services to win the trophy."
Comparative Analysis: Onauchu vs. Osimhen
Turkish football commentator Erman Toroglu recently compared Victor Osimhen and Paul Onauchu, highlighting the differences between the two Nigerian strikers who have dominated the Turkish Super League this season. While both players have demonstrated exceptional goal-scoring abilities, Onauchu's current lead in the scoring chart and his consistent performances have sparked discussions about his potential and future prospects.
Onauchu's achievement is particularly noteworthy given his age and experience, demonstrating that he remains a formidable force in European football. His ability to maintain high performance levels despite international commitments and league challenges underscores his professionalism and dedication to the sport.
