Paul Onuachu has opened up on the disappointment of Nigeria missing out on the 2026 FIFA World Cup, describing the absence from football’s biggest stage as painful for the Super Eagles players and fans alike.
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The experienced striker spoke ahead of Nigeria’s international friendly against , admitting that the squad still struggles to come to terms with failing to qualify despite possessing several top-quality stars.
“It’s sad we are not going to the World Cup because we have great players and world-class talents in the team, but unfortunately that is football,” Onuachu said.
The 31-year-old, however, insisted the Super Eagles must move forward positively and continue rebuilding under coach ahead of future competitions.
Onuachu also expressed confidence in Nigeria’s ability to compete against any side in world football as the team prepares for friendly matches against Poland.
“We are ready and prepared. We have the quality to play against any team in the world and hopefully we will show that,” he added.
While international football brought disappointment, the striker enjoyed an outstanding campaign with during the 2025/26 season.
The former forward rediscovered his best form in Turkey, finishing as joint-top scorer in the Turkish Süper Lig with 22 goals in 30 league appearances while also helping Trabzonspor win the Turkish Cup.
Onuachu credited his resurgence to playing in a system that fully utilises his strengths and understanding the expectations of both the club and supporters.
“When you are in a team that knows your qualities and plays to your strengths, things always work out,” he explained.
The towering forward further revealed that he returned to Trabzonspor determined to complete “unfinished business” after his successful loan spell at the club in 2023.
“I told the fans I was coming back stronger and better because we had unfinished business. I think I fulfilled my promise,” Onuachu stated.
Onuachu now heads into the upcoming friendlies in confident mood as he looks to increase his tally for the .
