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Southampton’s Premier League struggles deepened on Sunday as Super Eagles striker Paul Onuachu suffered an injury during their 3-2 defeat to Liverpool.
Having missed out on Southampton’s opening eleven games of the season, Onuachu was finally given his first start, leading the Saints’ attack.
The Nigerian striker, who had described playing in the Premier League as a “dream,” was showing glimpses of his potential before his outing was cut short.
Onuachu displayed promising hold-up and link-up play in the first half, registering 20 touches, three dribbles, and seven accurate passes.
His presence added a new dimension to Southampton’s attack, but the game took an unfortunate turn for both him and his team.
Liverpool dominated the early stages and broke the deadlock in the 30th minute through Dominik Szoboszlai.
Southampton fought back and leveled the score in the 42nd minute following a rebound from a missed penalty, carrying a 1-1 draw into halftime.
The Saints started the second half with renewed vigor, but Onuachu’s injury dealt a major blow to their momentum. The Nigerian forward, engaged in defensive duties, was brought down in a tackle by Darwin Núñez just five minutes into the half. Immediately signaling to the bench, Onuachu was forced off the pitch, leaving Southampton without their focal point in attack.
Despite Onuachu’s exit, Southampton briefly seized the lead when Mateus Nunes scored their second goal. For a moment, it seemed the Saints were on course for a famous victory.
However, Liverpool responded with ruthless efficiency. Mohamed Salah struck twice, in the 65th and 83rd minutes, to turn the tide in the Reds’ favor, condemning Southampton to another painful defeat.
Southampton’s Challenges Mount
For Southampton, the loss further entrenches them at the bottom of the table, raising questions about their ability to survive the season.
Onuachu’s injury comes at a particularly difficult time, as the Saints struggle to find form and stability.
The extent of Onuachu’s injury remains to be seen, but his absence could prove costly for a Southampton side desperate for points and inspiration.
