Super Eagles striker Paul Onuachu has delivered a powerful response to his exclusion from Nigeria's World Cup playoff squad by scoring his eighth goal of the season for Trabzonspor, immediately sending a message to coach Eric Chelle.
Onuachu's Goal-Scoring Statement
The 31-year-old forward found the net in the 14th minute during Trabzonspor's 1-1 draw against Alanyaspor at Papara Park on Saturday evening, November 8. Despite his team's eventual draw, Onuachu demonstrated his continued scoring form that has made his omission from the national team particularly puzzling to Nigerian football enthusiasts.
Onuachu's crucial strike came just hours after coach Eric Chelle announced his 24-man squad for the crucial World Cup playoff against Gabon scheduled for November 13 in Rabat. The squad composition includes three goalkeepers, eight defenders, five midfielders, and eight forwards, notably excluding the prolific Trabzonspor attacker.
Fan Reactions to Squad Omission
Nigerian supporters have expressed widespread bewilderment at Chelle's decision to leave out the former Southampton forward. Social media platforms erupted with reactions following Onuachu's latest goal, with many questioning the selection criteria used by the Super Eagles coaching staff.
One fan, @LadyVictoria21, commented: "Onuachu doing what he does best! Another thunderbolt for Nigeria — unstoppable right now!" while @FrenzyJames1 added: "Better than Tolu Arokodare by far, I don't know why he's not being called up to the National Team."
The attacking lineup selected instead features Victor Osimhen, Akor Adams, Moses Simon, Ademola Lookman, Tolu Arokodare, Chidera Ejuke, and Olakunle Olusegun.
Trabzonspor's Season Progress
With this latest goal, Onuachu has now contributed significantly to Trabzonspor's impressive season start. The club has accumulated 25 points from 12 matches with a record of seven wins, four draws, and only one loss. Their opponents Alanyaspor sit on 15 points with three wins, six draws, and three losses.
The match saw Trabzonspor dominate possession and create several opportunities after Onuachu's early breakthrough, though they struggled to convert their chances. The visitors equalized in the 73rd minute through Ianis Hagi, sharing the points in the Turkish Super Lig encounter.
This goal marks Onuachu's return to scoring form after failing to find the net in previous matches against Eyupspor and Galatasaray, demonstrating his resilience and consistent threat in front of goal.
As the Super Eagles prepare for their crucial World Cup qualification battle, the decision to exclude one of Nigeria's most in-form strikers continues to generate discussion among football analysts and supporters alike, with many wondering if coach Chelle will reconsider his selection before the vital playoff encounter.
