The long wait is over for Paul Onuachu, who finally netted his first Premier League goal in a thrilling Super Eagles derby on Sunday.

In a high-stakes match featuring four Super Eagles players, it was Paul Onuachu and Ola Aina who emerged as the standout performers, as Nottingham Forest triumphed 3-2 over Southampton.

Joe Aribo started the match for Southampton, while Taiwo Awoniyi came on as a second-half substitute for Forest, replacing Chris Wood.

With crucial contributions from both Nigerian internationals, the match delivered excitement and drama, keeping fans entertained till the final whistle.

Paul Onuachu’s Premier League breakthrough

The towering Nigerian forward, who arrived at St. Mary’s during the January transfer window of the 2022-23 season, has faced growing pressure to deliver for Southampton.

His earlier struggles in front of goal prompted a season-long loan to Trabzonspor, where he silenced his critics with an impressive 17 goals and four assists for the Black Sea Storm.

Onuachu finally broke his 658-day goal drought, having made his Premier League debut for the Saints in February 2023 against Brentford.

Paul Onuachu’s Premier League first goal came as a lifeline for Southampton, who were battling a tough Nottingham Forest side.

Onuachu, who replaced Adam Armstrong in the 58th minute, found the net late in the game, providing a glimmer of hope for the Saints.

His header from a Mateus Fernandes corner pulled Southampton within a goal, but it was not enough to turn the tide as Forest held firm.

Ola Aina’s key assist in Forest victory

Ola Aina played an important role in Forest’s victory, starting the game and contributing an assist for Chris Wood’s third goal.

Aina’s precise delivery into the box allowed Wood to head home, wrapping off Forest’s commanding first-half performance.

Despite Southampton’s second-half fightback, it was Forest’s resilience and early dominance that secured the three points, propelling them to level with Arsenal in the Premier League standings.

In a game filled with Nigerian talent, Onuachu’s goal and Aina’s assist proved to be the major highlight in Nottingham Forest’s 3-2 win, as they extend their unbeaten run to nine matches.

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Last Updated on January 19, 2025 6:59 pm by Sir Kris