Nigerian striker Paul Onuachu continued his sensational form in the Turkish Süper Lig, scoring the only goal in Trabzonspor’s 1–0 win over Çaykur Rizespor.
The towering forward struck in the 51st minute, calmly finishing after a well-worked move to hand Trabzonspor all three points and extend his remarkable scoring run.
With the goal, Onuachu became the first Trabzonspor player in over 30 years to score in eight consecutive league matches, a feat last achieved in 1992.
Zubkov Assist Sets Up Decisive Moment
The decisive moment came early in the second half.
Ukrainian winger Oleksandr Zubkov beat his defender on the flank before delivering a precise pass into the penalty area.
Onuachu, standing at 2.01 meters, used his composure and positioning to guide a right-footed finish past the goalkeeper and into the net.
The goal ultimately proved enough to secure victory for the Black Sea club.
More Than Just a Goal-Scorer
Beyond his goal, Onuachu delivered a complete performance.
The Nigerian forward contributed across the pitch, finishing the match with:
- 11 completed passes
- 3 successful dribbles
- 10 duels won
- 1 tackle
- 2 ball recoveries
- 1 defensive clearance
His display underlined his importance to Trabzonspor not just as a finisher but also as a physical focal point in attack.
Closing in on Osimhen’s Record
Onuachu’s latest strike takes his league tally to 21 goals in the 2025–26 season.
So far, he has recorded:
- 22 starts (plus one substitute appearance)
- 21 goals
- 2 assists
- 70 shots attempted
He now sits six goals away from the Süper Lig single-season record of 26, set last season by fellow Nigerian Victor Osimhen.
If Onuachu surpasses that mark, he would become only the second African player to hold the record for most goals in a Süper Lig season.
A Career Revival in Turkey
Born in Lagos on May 28, 1994, Onuachu’s career has seen several chapters across Europe.
He previously made his name at FC Midtjylland in Denmark before enjoying prolific seasons with K.R.C. Genk in Belgium.
A move to Southampton F.C. in 2023 proved difficult, where he managed four goals in 36 appearances.
However, a loan move to Trabzonspor in the 2023–24 season reignited his career, producing 15 goals in 21 matches.
That form convinced the club to sign him permanently in 2025, tying him down to a contract running until 2028.
Key Figure for Club and Country
Onuachu has also represented the Nigeria national football team since 2019, earning 30 caps and scoring four goals for the Super Eagles.
His current scoring streak is boosting Trabzonspor’s ambitions in the Süper Lig while also strengthening his case for a bigger role with Nigeria in upcoming international competitions.
As the season progresses, attention will now turn to whether the towering striker can break Osimhen’s scoring record and cement his place in Süper Lig history.
