Standing tall: Onuachu heads home the winner as Trabzonspor beat Kocaelispor in season opener

Super Eagles striker Paul Onuachu was the hero for Trabzonspor as his solitary goal sealed a 1-0 win over Kocaelispor in the opening match of the 2025/2026 Turkish Super Lig season.

The Nigerian international, who completed a permanent move to the club this summer after a successful loan spell, struck just four minutes into the second half.

In the 49th minute, the towering striker soared above his markers to nod in a precise cross from Mustafa Eskihellaç, sparking wild celebrations at Papara Park.

Onuachu, who was a constant threat for the hosts throughout the match, was eventually substituted in the 77th minute, making way for Fatih Tekke.

Meanwhile, Belgian winger Kazeem Olaigbe, who is also eligible to represent Nigeria, was replaced by Danylo Sikan in the 63rd minute, while 2017 Super Eagles invitee Anthony Nwakaeme was in action for 84 minutes. 

Despite a late push from the visitors to find an equaliser, Trabzonspor stood firm to secure the win, much to the delight of their passionate fans.

The 31-year-old Onuachu enjoyed a prolific loan spell at Trabzonspor in the 2023/2024 season, scoring 15 goals and registering four assists in 21 league appearances.

With the new campaign underway, Onuachu will be eager to sustain his scoring touch and stake a claim for a Super Eagles call-up ahead of the 2026 Fifa World Cup qualifiers.

Adeyemi Adewale

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