Super Eagles striker Paul Onuachu marked his return from international duty with a goal as Trabzonspor secured a vital 2-1 victory over Kasimpaşa in the Turkish Super Lig on Friday.
Onuachu, who recently featured for Nigeria at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, was introduced at the start of the second half and needed just five minutes to make his impact, firing the hosts into a deserved lead.
Kasimpaşa responded well and drew level in the 61st minute through Fousseni Diabaté, whose precise strike into the bottom left corner beat goalkeeper Onana to quieten the home crowd.
Onuachu celebrating with his teammates. Photo Credit: Imago
Trabzonspor regained control late on after Anthony Nwakaeme was brought off the bench in the 78th minute. The experienced forward provided the assist for Oleksandr Zubkov, who produced an audacious chip to restore the home side’s advantage six minutes from time.
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Kasimpaşa’s hopes of a comeback were effectively ended when Kerem Demirbay was sent off after receiving two yellow cards in quick succession, allowing Trabzonspor to see out the closing stages with a numerical advantage.
Onuachu rejoined Trabzonspor from Southampton in the summer transfer window Photo Credit: Imago
The win moves Fatih Tekke’s side to within two points of league leaders Galatasaray, who have a game in hand. Trabzonspor next face Antalyaspor in their upcoming league fixture.
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Onuachu’s goal takes his Super Lig tally to 12 for the season from just 16 appearances, leaving him one strike behind current leading scorer Eldor Shomurodov.
