Onuachu vs. Sadiq: The Super League goal scorer merits a call-up for the 2026 World Cup qualifications
According to Soccernet.ng, Super Eagles head coach Jose Peseiro has revealed his 23-man team for the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying matches.
The club has struggled with injuries, as evidenced by the absence of star striker Victor Osimhen from their most recent international friendly against Saudi Arabia.
Furthermore, injury problems for AC Milan forward Samuel Chukwueze forced Peseiro to call up Nathan Tella of Bayer Leverkusen for his Super Eagles debut.
Peseiro has turned to Sadiq, who has had difficulty scoring goals since returning from a protracted injury period with Real Sociedad, to replace the injured Osimhen.
Sadiq’s Performance Analysis:
Since making his comeback, the 26-year-old forward has not scored, thus Real Sociedad is anxious to see their €20 million investment pay off.
Although Peseiro has a track record of giving players who are struggling at the club level a chance, some Nigerian football fans are puzzled about Sadiq's selection over Paul Onuachu.
Onuachu’s Claim for Selection:
In the winter transfer window of 2024, Onuachu had a dismal time playing for Southampton, making just 18 appearances for the English team without scoring a goal. He then decided to sign a season-long loan with Trabzonspor of the Turkish Super Lig.
In sharp contrast to Sadiq's goal drought, Onuachu has established himself as a deadly striker in Turkey, scoring six goals in eight outings.
Sadiq or Onuachu for Super Eagles Squad?
With his recent goal-scoring success in Turkey, Onuachu is deserving of a berth in the starting lineup, particularly to take Osimhen's place.
It is important to acknowledge the Nigerian forward's outstanding efforts as the team looks to win its World Cup qualifying matches against Lesotho and Zimbabwe.
