Super Eagles forward Paul Onuachu has earned a prestigious nomination for the 2024 FIFA Puskás Award, thanks to his jaw-dropping match-winning goal for Trabzonspor in their 2-1 victory over Konyaspor last season.
In the 85th minute, with the game tied at 1-1, Onuachu demonstrated extraordinary athleticism to execute a flying backheel finish from Enis Destan’s cross.
The audacious strike not only secured victory for Trabzonspor but also captivated fans and pundits, cementing its place among the most memorable goals of the year.
📍Paul Onuachu
🏟️ @Trabzonspor v Konyaspor
🎥 @superlig— FIFA World Cup (@FIFAWorldCup) November 29, 2024
The Nigerian striker had earlier opened the scoring in the 59th minute before Louka Prip equalized for Konyaspor in the 77th.
Onuachu’s late brilliance ensured Trabzonspor’s triumph and has now placed him in the global spotlight.
Paul Onuachu Competing for the Crown
Onuachu joins a shortlist of eleven contenders for the Puskás Award, celebrating the most spectacular goals scored between August 21, 2023, and August 10, 2024.
Notable nominees include Alejandro Garnacho, Federico Dimarco, Mohammed Kudus, and Jaden Philogene.
Puskas Award 2024: A Battle Royale! Philogene, Di Marco, Mota, Garnacho, Wolfinger Lead Early Charge
Other challengers include Hassan Al Haydos, Terry Antonis, Yassine Benzia, Walter Bou, Michaell Chirinos, and Denis Omedi.
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A Chance to Make History
This recognition marks a career milestone for Onuachu, who has faced limited playing time since returning to Southampton from his loan spell in Turkey.
Despite making just one start this season, his nomination could revive his momentum and elevate his profile.
Notably, Onuachu holds the record for the fastest goal in Super Eagles history, scoring just 10 seconds into a friendly against Egypt in 2019.
Winning the Puskás Award would make him the first Nigerian to achieve this honor, adding another historic chapter to his career.
