Super Eagles striker Paul Onuachu has expressed his delight after scoring his first-ever Africa Cup of Nations goal in Nigeria’s 3-1 victory over Uganda on Tuesday evening.

The Trabzonspor forward was handed a starting role alongside Victor Osimhen and made the opportunity count, calmly slotting home from close range to open the scoring for Nigeria. 

The goal marked Onuachu’s first at the AFCON tournament and set the tone for a convincing Super Eagles performance.

Speaking after the match, the former Southampton striker said he was pleased to get on the scoresheet, stressing how important goals are for a striker at any level.

“I was just happy. It feels good to get a goal as a striker regardless of where you're playing in the AFCON, World Cup, it always feels good to score as a striker. So, I feel really good about scoring the goal,” Onuachu said. 

Onuachu addressed the pressure that comes with competing for a starting place in a squad filled with attacking talent. 

According to him, experience has taught him to always stay ready and respect team decisions. 

“Not all because I have been doing this for years. I mean, it's football, sometimes you start, sometimes you don't start, you should always respect the group and the choices of the coaches, I mean we all have qualities in the group, you just have to be ready whenever the coach calls upon you,” he explained. 

The striker also reacted to his club’s struggles since his departure for international duty, admitting his focus remains firmly on national duty for now.

“I think they missed me a little bit but it's football I have to come to honour and represent my country,” he said. 

“I have to focus on the AFCON, so when we are done by the grace of God we win, full focus on the club side.”

Nigeria’s win over Uganda secured qualification to the Round of 16, as the Super Eagles finished top of Group C with a perfect nine points from three matches.

Having opened his AFCON goal account, Onuachu will now be eager to play a bigger role as Nigeria continue their quest for continental glory in Morocco.

Adeyemi Adewale