World Cup playoffs: Good News for Eric Chelle as Super Eagles star wins Turkish Super Lig Player of the Month

Nigeria’s towering striker, Paul Onuachu, has been crowned the Turkish Super Lig Player of the Month for October, following a series of outstanding performances for Trabzonspor.

The 31-year-old forward scored two goals and provided one assist in three league appearances throughout October, helping Trabzonspor remain unbeaten with two wins and a draw during the month.

Onuachu’s consistency and clinical finishing proved vital for the Black Sea Storm, earning him widespread recognition and a resounding vote of confidence from fans across Turkey.

The Nigerian international saw off competition from a strong list of nominees, including Rafa Silva, Andre Onana, Milan Škriniar, Marco Asensio, Orkun Kökçü, Ederson Moraes, Wilfred Singo, and Davinson Sánchez.

The award was decided entirely by fan votes, further highlighting Onuachu’s growing popularity and influence in the Turkish top flight.

This is not the first time Onuachu has been celebrated this season; the striker has already claimed the Goal of the Month award twice.

So far in the 2025/26 campaign, Onuachu has scored seven goals and contributed one assist in 11 league appearances, maintaining an impressive scoring ratio and solidifying his position as one of Trabzonspor’s key assets.

Onuachu’s red-hot form will be a welcome boost for Nigeria’s Super Eagles ahead of their crucial World Cup qualification playoffs later this month.

His sharpness in front of goal could provide the national team with the cutting edge they need in decisive fixtures.

Eric Chelle's team will face Gabon in the 2026 FIFA World Cup playoff, with the semi-final match scheduled for Thursday, November 13, at the El Barid Stadium in Rabat, Morocco.