Anthony Nwakaeme played a key role in Trabzonspor’s narrow 1-0 victory over Eyüpspor on Monday night, registering his fourth goal contribution of the Turkish Süper Lig season.
The 35-year-old Nigerian forward, who has one cap for the Super Eagles, provided the assist for John Lundstram’s 59th-minute winner, securing a crucial three points at home.
This marks Nwakaeme’s third assist of the season and another testament to his creative influence in Trabzonspor’s attack.
Eyüpspor had an early opportunity to take the lead just seven minutes into the game, but Mame Thiam missed from the penalty spot.
Despite Trabzonspor dominating possession, they struggled to break down fourth-placed Eyüpspor’s defense, making Nwakaeme’s contribution all the more vital.
Nwakaeme was heavily involved throughout his 89 minutes on the pitch, completing 68 touches and maintaining an impressive 91% pass accuracy (39/43).
He created four key passes, including his assist, and delivered two crosses, one of which found its target. His expected assist (xA) value stood at 0.24, highlighting his impact in the final third.
While he didn’t find the net himself, Nwakaeme had one shot off target and another blocked, with an expected goals (xG) rating of 0.05. His dribbling, however, was less effective, failing to complete either of his two attempts.
So far this season, Nwakaeme has made 14 league appearances, starting in nine, with one goal and three assists to his name.
A former Turkish Süper Lig champion, his last appearance for the Super Eagles came in 2017 on November 17 under Gernot Rohr during a 2018 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Algeria.
Nigeria initially took a 1-1 draw from the game.
However, FIFA later awarded Algeria a 3-0 win after it was discovered that Nigeria fielded Shehu Abdullahi, who was ineligible to play due to his accumulation of yellow cards.
![Nwakaeme](https://brilanet.s3.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/26150706/Anthony-Nwakae-ogu.jpg)
Anthony Nwakaeme celebrates John Ogu’s screamer against Algeria in Constatine [Image: Brila]
While his return to international football seems unlikely, Nwakaeme continues to deliver for Trabzonspor, proving his worth in the Turkish top flight.
His experience and playmaking ability remain an asset as Trabzonspor aims to climb higher in the league standings.