Trabzonspor striker Paul Onuachu has addressed his team’s 1-0 defeat to Freiburg. He discussed their missed opportunities, his personal scoring ambitions and controversial penalty situations, Bold Sports reports.
The Nigerian striker has scored twice in the Turkish Süper Lig this season. He also scored in Trabzonspor’s 4-2 Conference League victory over KuPS on October 15. Most recently, he featured for 63 minutes in their 2-0 league victory over Gaziantep FK on November 1. His contributions remain important to Thomas Reis’ attacking plans.
Onuachu assesses Trabzonspor’s performance
Trabzonspor suffered their first defeat under Thomas Reis against Freiburg. Lukas Kübler scored the decisive goal in the 14th minute at Papara Park.
The result also ended Trabzonspor’s seven-match winning streak under the German manager.
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Despite the disappointing result, Onuachu believes his teammates delivered a competitive performance. He also acknowledged Freiburg’s quality.
Speaking after the match, the Nigerian forward said:
“Even though we lost, I can say that we actually played a good match today, we had a good game. Because we had a tough opponent. Despite that, we had many chances but couldn’t capitalize on them.”
Nigerian striker addresses his scoring ambitions
Onuachu also discussed questions about his appearances as a substitute. Reporters asked whether those situations created pressure following his achievement as last season’s top scorer.
However, the forward insisted that collective success remains his priority. He also made his personal ambitions clear.
“Of course, as a striker, I want to score goals, but what’s important here is that the team wins and plays good football, which is what they are doing. When the team wins, there’s really not much of a problem, but of course, when the opportunity arises, I want to score. As long as the team is doing well, I want to contribute to the team.”
His response highlights his desire to balance individual ambitions with Trabzonspor’s overall objectives.
Onuachu discusses controversial penalty situations
The Nigerian international also addressed two incidents during the Freiburg encounter.
Onuachu believed the referee’s decision could have influenced the outcome. However, he acknowledged that the final decision rested with the match official.
“Actually, the referee’s decision could be important here. Because it was a 50/50 situation. I was pushed from behind, but the referee was the one who would make the final decision.”
His comments reflected his frustration with the incident without directly challenging the referee’s authority.
Onuachu highlights Mohamed Salah’s influence
Onuachu also spoke positively about Mohamed Salah and the Egyptian star’s influence within the team.
The Nigerian striker believes working alongside a player of Salah’s experience offers significant benefits.
“Everyone wants to meet a star like Salah. He adds a lot to us with his experience as a world star. He has a positive impact on us.”
Trabzonspor must now turn their attention towards their next assignment.
They will seek a response when they face Alanyaspor in the Turkish Süper Lig on November 8.
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