Super Eagles striker Paul Onuachu has expressed his deep disappointment over Nigeria's failure to secure a spot at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, despite the wealth of talent within the national team. The Trabzonspor forward spoke candidly to the Nigeria Football Federation media team ahead of Nigeria's international friendly against Poland.
Nigeria's absence from the World Cup remains a painful topic for fans, especially given the abundance of high-profile stars plying their trade in Europe's elite leagues. Onuachu emphasized that the Super Eagles possess the quality to compete with any team in world football, making the failure even harder to accept.
Onuachu Laments World Cup Disappointment
The former Southampton striker did not hold back when discussing the failed qualifying campaign. The Super Eagles struggled throughout the qualifiers and will once again watch the tournament from home, despite a squad packed with established internationals.
Reflecting on the missed opportunity, Onuachu admitted it remains a bitter pill to swallow. He told NFF media, "Sad we're not going to the World Cup because we have good players, world-class players, but unfortunately we are not going. It's football."
Despite the setback, the striker remains confident in the team's ability. He also expressed joy at reuniting with teammates during the international break. "It's always nice to come around the team and meet the boys again," he said.
Ready for Poland and Portugal
Looking ahead to the upcoming matches against Poland and Portugal, Onuachu backed Nigeria to deliver strong performances. "We are ready, prepared, and we have the quality to play against any team in the world. Hopefully, we will show it against Poland and Portugal," he added.
Remarkable Season in Turkey
While international football brought disappointment, Onuachu enjoyed one of the finest seasons of his career at club level. The Nigerian forward was instrumental for Trabzonspor during the 2025/26 campaign, finishing as joint-top scorer in the Turkish Super Lig with 22 goals, according to FotMob.
He also won the league's Goal of the Season award for a spectacular bicycle kick against Fatih Karagumruk. Onuachu helped Trabzonspor secure the Turkish Cup, giving fans a memorable campaign despite the club finishing behind Galatasaray and Fenerbahce in the league standings.
Reflecting on the season, Onuachu praised his teammates and the club's achievements. "For me, I think we had an amazing season, both me and the team," he said. He highlighted how the squad competed against financially stronger opponents. "Compared to the players we had and the budget of other teams, I think we really put in a good shift. We had an amazing season with our squad."
Turkish Cup Triumph Softened League Disappointment
Trabzonspor's hopes of challenging for the league title fell short as Galatasaray and Fenerbahce finished ahead. However, lifting the Turkish Cup ensured the season ended on a positive note. Onuachu acknowledged the gap between his side and the top two but said the cup success gave supporters plenty to celebrate.
"We really worked hard and were close to competing with the other top two, but they are much stronger. Winning the cup was a great feeling for the players and especially for the city and the fans," Onuachu explained. "Winning the cup made it an amazing season. I know what the team wants, what the city wants. You are in a team that plays to your strength and knows your quality."
Unfinished Business Completed
After a successful loan spell with Trabzonspor, Onuachu returned permanently, determined to fulfill a promise he made to supporters. The 31-year-old said he always believed goals would come once he returned. "Everything will always work out one way or another. Coming there, I knew I was going to score some goals," he added.
He revealed he sent a message to fans before finalizing the move. "Even before I made the transfer, I made a video for the Trabzonspor fans and told them I was coming back stronger and better, and that we had unfinished business. The last time I was on loan, I told them I was coming to finish it. So I feel good about what I said to them before I signed."
His impressive performances have reportedly attracted interest from clubs in Saudi Arabia, with speculation growing about another major move.
Nigeria Face Poland
The Super Eagles continue their international preparations with friendly matches against Poland and Portugal during the current FIFA window. These fixtures come shortly after Nigeria lifted the Unity Cup, defeating Zimbabwe in the semi-final and overcoming Jamaica in the final.
