Troost-Ekong’s replacement? Nigerians hail Super Eagles striker Onuachu after centre-back display for club

In a move that has left Nigerian football fans shocked and excited, Paul Onuachu showed remarkable versatility by stepping into the centre-back role for Trabzonspor during a crucial 2-1 victory at Goztepe. 

This unexpected performance has sparked excitement and speculation, is Onuachu the next defensive star to join the Super Eagles after William Troost-Ekong retired ahead of AFCON 2025?

Onuachu, typically known as a towering striker, who leads the Super Lig chart with 11 goals, was thrust into defence for the final 20 minutes after teammate Wagner Pina was sent off. 

Yet, instead of faltering, the 31-year-old stunned spectators with an array of defensive stats: winning 13 duels, blocking a shot, making 11 clearances, 11 headed clearances, three recoveries, and completing 10 headers from 16 attempts. 

His commanding presence helped secure the win, earning praise not only from Trabzonspor’s coach but also from fans across Nigeria.

“He used to be a lanky CM/AM in Awori FC in Ọjọ. He started playing top 9 when he was picked by Churchill Ebedie FC in FHA Festac because of his height. He was used as a top 9, and he scored two quick goals,” a fan reflected on his journey, explaining how his adaptability has always been part of his game. 

Others quickly rallied behind the idea, flooded with comments like, “Most Nigerian footballers can play as a goalkeeper, defender, and striker. That's how we play in the streets.” 

Another echoed the hope that Onuachu could “pair with Bassey and bring back Chrisantus Uche” for a formidable Super Eagles defence.

One tweet caught the pulse of the Nigerian football community perfectly: “Might just be Ekong’s replacement.” 

Whether as an emergency centre-back or a long-term strategic choice, Onuachu’s seamless switch has launched a fresh conversation about Nigeria’s defensive future and could be the start of a new chapter for the Super Eagles.