What does Paul Onuachu need to do for Super Eagles recall?

Paul Onuachu was on target again at the weekend, extending his lead over Victor Osimhen in the Turkish Süper Lig’s Golden Boot race as Trabzonspor were held to a 1–1 draw by Alanyaspor. 

It was his eighth goal of the season, a typically well-taken header that showcased his poise and timing in front of goal. Yet, even as he keeps finding the net in Turkey, his name was once again missing from Eric Chelle’s 24-man Super Eagles squad released on Saturday morning for Nigeria’s all-important World Cup playoff clash against Gabon on November 13 in Rabat, Morocco.

Nigeria’s meeting with Gabon is a must-win semi-final in the African playoffs, with a potential final on November 16 against either DR Congo or Cameroon offering a route to the FIFA World Cup intercontinental playoff. But Onuachu, despite his scoring form, won’t be there. His exclusion continues a familiar pattern, club success followed by national team disappointment. Six years since making his debut, the 31-year-old has never truly cemented a place in the Super Eagles setup.

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— 🔴 Goal Clips on @CenterOfGoals🟠 (@timbers90374) November 8, 2025

Why Onuachu’s club form isn’t getting him in the Super Eagles squad

For all his goals in Europe, Onuachu’s international record remains modest: three goals in 25 appearances and his style doesn’t quite align with Nigeria’s current rhythm. 

Chelle has leaned on younger, more mobile forwards like Tolu Arokodare and Akor Adams, who have delivered when called upon. Arokodare, in particular, scored the winner against Rwanda in Uyo the only match Nigeria have won in these qualifiers without Osimhen and his link-up play created Osimhen’s goal in the draw against Zimbabwe. 

At Trabzonspor, everything flows toward Onuachu. The system is built around his presence, early crosses, long balls, and direct service into the box. It works for them, but Nigeria don’t play that way. The Super Eagles thrive on pace, pressing, and combination play. The centre-forward is expected to stretch defences, initiate pressure, and rotate with wingers in fluid patterns. Onuachu, for all his efficiency, doesn’t fit that mould.

That’s why four different coaches, Rohr, Eguavoen, Peseiro, and now Chelle have all arrived at the same conclusion. Onuachu is an outstanding finisher when the setup suits him, but international football rarely bends to one man’s style. The Turkish Süper Lig highlights his strengths; the Super Eagles system exposes his limitations.

Chelle’s latest list shows his intent to stick with what works. Osimhen remains the undisputed lead striker, while Arokodare and Adams have proved capable deputies.