Onuachu Scores but Misses Late Penalty as Trabzonspor Settle for Draw

Super Eagles striker Paul Onuachu found the net but endured a mixed evening as Trabzonspor were held to a 1-1 draw by Antalyaspor in Friday’s Turkish Super Lig encounter.

The hosts fell behind just before halftime when Sander van de Streek fired Antalyaspor into the lead two minutes before the break. Trabzonspor responded with renewed intensity after the restart, with Onuachu playing a central role in their comeback.

Early in the second half, the Nigerian forward won a penalty and calmly converted it, sending Antalyaspor goalkeeper Julian the wrong way to restore parity. However, the match took a dramatic turn 11 minutes from time when Trabzonspor were awarded another spot-kick. This time, Onuachu was unable to complete the comeback, missing what could have been the winning goal.

Despite the late disappointment, the 31-year-old’s goal took his tally to 13 league goals for the season, making him joint top scorer in the Turkish Super Lig alongside Istanbul Başakşehir striker Eldor Shomurodov.

Trabzonspor remain third on the league table with 42 points, sitting four points behind leaders Galatasaray as the title race continues to tighten.

Opinion: A Night of Fine Margins for Onuachu

Football can be cruel, and this was a perfect example. Onuachu once again showed why he is one of the most reliable forwards in Turkey this season — winning a penalty, converting it with composure, and leading the line with authority. The missed late spot-kick, though costly, should not overshadow his overall impact.

Even elite strikers miss penalties, and what truly matters is consistency across the season. With 13 goals and joint top scorer status, Onuachu remains a major weapon for Trabzonspor as they chase silverware.

For the Black Sea Storm, the draw may feel like a missed opportunity, but with their striker in this kind of form, belief remains strong. If they can keep creating chances, goals — and wins — will surely follow.