Onuachu scores record goal to sink Rizespor as Trabzonspor maintain title pressure
Super Eagles forward Paul Onuachu scored the decisive goal as Trabzonspor secured a narrow 1-0 win over Çaykur Rizespor in their Turkish Süper Lig clash on Saturday.
The Nigerian striker’s second-half strike at Papara Park proved enough to hand the hosts all three points and keep them in the title race.
Trabzonspor had to work hard to break down a disciplined Rizespor side before eventually finding the breakthrough early in the second half.
Onuachu continues remarkable scoring run
The decisive moment came in the 51st minute when substitute Oleksandr Zubkov delivered a precise ball into the six-yard box.
Onuachu timed his run perfectly and calmly finished from close range to score his 21st league goal of the season.
The strike extended the forward’s impressive form in front of goal, with the Nigerian now scoring in eight consecutive Süper Lig matches and ten straight games across all competitions.
Following the goal, Onuachu paid tribute to late Trabzonspor assistant coach Orhan Kaynak, who passed away earlier in the week, by displaying the coach’s jersey to supporters inside the stadium.
Late saves secure crucial win
Despite taking the lead, Trabzonspor were forced to defend late pressure from the visitors.
Goalkeeper Andre Onana produced two crucial saves in the closing stages to preserve the victory.
The shot-stopper denied Frantzdy Pierrot in the 87th minute before quickly reacting again moments later to keep out an effort from Emrecan Bulut.
The result extended Trabzonspor’s winning run to four matches and strengthened their push near the top of the table.
With the victory, Trabzonspor move to 57 points after 26 matches, level with Fenerbahçe in second place and seven points behind leaders Galatasaray SK.
Trabzonspor will now shift focus to their next league fixture away to Eyüpspor as they aim to maintain pressure in the title race.