Nigerian international Paul Onuachu made an immediate impact in the new Turkish league season, scoring the only goal as Trabzonspor secured a 1-0 victory over Kocaelispor in their opening fixture on Sunday.
The towering striker found the back of the net just four minutes after halftime, providing the decisive moment in what proved to be a tightly contested match at the Papara Park Stadium.
Onuachu, who recently completed a permanent transfer to Trabzonspor from English Championship side Southampton, delivered exactly what the Black Sea Storm needed to start their campaign on a positive note.
The 30-year-old forward featured for 77 minutes before being substituted for Felipe Augusto as coach Abdullah Avcı looked to protect the slender advantage in the closing stages of the match.
Fellow Nigerian Anthony Nwakaeme also played a significant role for Trabzonspor, starting the match and contributing to the team's attacking efforts before being replaced by Bosluk Arif in the 84th minute.
This performance will be particularly encouraging for Trabzonspor fans, as Onuachu has now made his loan move from last season permanent. During the 2023/24 campaign, the Nigerian impressed while on loan at the club, prompting Trabzonspor to secure his services on a long-term basis last month.
The victory gives Trabzonspor an ideal start in their quest to challenge for honors in the Turkish Super Lig this season, with Onuachu already proving his worth as a match-winner.
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