‘Chelle will still bench am’ — Troost-Ekong, Onyeka lead praise for underrated Eagles midfielder after solid outing vs Barcelona

Nigerian defensive midfielder Raphael Onyedika has earned respect and praise from his national teammates and compatriots led by Super Eagles skipper William Troost-Ekong after he delivered a fantastic outing for Club Brugge against Barcelona in the Champions League.

Onyedika provided decisive midfield cover as the Belgian giants came within touching distance of upsetting Hansi Flick’s Barcelona in their pulsating six-goal thriller in the Champions League on Wednesday. 

While his 21-year-old teammate and UEFA Champion League Player of the Week nominee, Carlos Forbs provided the ammunition, with two goals and assist in the entertaining 3-3 draw, Nigeria’s Onyedika helped to provide cover in midfield for 84 minutes.

Before he was substituted, and received a deserved ovation from the home crowd, potentially due to an injury, the 24-year-old’s stats were exemplary.  According to the numbers provided by Opta, he completed 100% of his passes, showing his ability to distribute the ball accurately and maintain possession, created one chance and delivered four passes in the final third. 

After the match, Onyedika posted action pictures from the game against the LaLiga champions on Instagram, which quickly became a rallying point of support from Nigerians led by Super Eagles teammates Troost-Ekong and Frank Onyeka.

Troost-Ekong posted clapping emojis, while Onyeka screamed “Rioooo.” but amidst the positive comments which included “Big midfielder, I saw your working yesterday...Sabi boy”, some Nigerians were concerned about Onyedika’s Super Eagles status. 

One concerned Nigerian supporter pointed out the disparity between his consistency at Brugge and Super Eagles. "After Eric Chelle go carry you put for bench, i no sure say that man go make heaven shaa." 

Another added, "And we still de start Ndidi for our national team lol we never serious," questioning why the in-form player isn't a Super Eagles regular starter.

Onyedika's consistency at Club Brugge contrasts sharply with his limited role in the Super Eagle, which has continued under coach Eric Chelle. 

Nigeria's midfield is often anchored by the experienced Ndidi, a Premier League veteran alongside Fulham’s attacking midfielder Alex Iwobi. While Ndidi remains a reliable figure, Onyedika's Champions League-level performances present a compelling case for his inclusion, either alongside Ndidi in a double pivot or as a starting option. 

His high passing accuracy and defensive steel against elite European opposition suggest he has the profile to solidify the Super Eagles' midfield, providing a robust base for the attacking talent.

His masterclass against Barcelona was not just a great night for him but a firm reminder of his quality. The growing chorus of support, led by national teammates, forces a much-needed conversation about his role in the Super Eagles. Will Eric Chelle finally trust his in-form midfielder?