Nigeria international Frank Onyeka set up one of the goals as Brentford recorded an important 2-2 draw with Chelsea in the Premier League on Saturday, March 2, 2024.
The Bees put up a spirited performance at the Gtech Community Stadium, and Mauricio Pochettino’s side had to come from behind to snatch a draw late on.
Thomas Frank’s side made a poor start to the game and struggled to handle Chelsea’s intensity within the opening half hour.
The Blues enjoyed the larger share of possession and created the better chances as Brentford sat back and looked to catch them on the counterattack. Chelsea’s relentless pursuit finally paid off in the 35th minute when Nicolas Jackson put them in front.
Onyeka provides assist for Wissa’s goal against Chelsea
However, the Blues dropped off after the half-time break, with Brentford grabbing the equaliser just 10 minutes after the restart through Mads Roersle.
Onyeka then assisted Yoane Wissa to put the hosts ahead for the first time in the game with a beautiful acrobatic finish in the 69th minute. The Nigerian midfielder has been in imperious form since returning to Brentford after the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in the Ivory Coast.
Having starred for the Super Eagles in their run to the final of the tournament, the 26-year-old has carried his form back to the Premier League, and it was his mid-air trapping of the ball that set up Wissa to put Brentford 2-1 ahead.
The Bees would, however, have to settle for a draw following Axel Disasi’s late strike that ensured the spoils were shared between both teams.
Onyeka’s impressive Premier League campaign
Onyeka has been one of Brentford’s best players in the Premier League this season despite the club’s obvious struggles.
Thomas Frank’s side have won just two matches out of their last eight and currently occupy the 14th position on the Premier League table.
That, though, has not stopped Onyeka from shining, as he’s been one of Brentford’s leaders in terms of statistics and consistency.
Against Manchester City last month, Onyeka had the most interceptions, most tackles, most blocks and most shots as the Bees succumbed to a 1-0 loss.
The Nigerian midfielder continues to be a key asset for Brentford after playing a prominent role in his country’s runners-up finish at AFCON 2024.
