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From breaking up play to driving forward with purpose, the 27-year-old proved he’s in prime form, exactly the kind of energy the Super Eagles could have harnessed.

Augsburg’s Brentford loanee Frank Onyeka delivered a masterclass performance in their 1-0 victory over Wolfsburg, sending a resounding message to Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle, who shockingly omitted him from the latest national team squad. 

The tireless midfielder’s combative and creative display paints a picture of what Nigeria will miss as they prepare for upcoming WCQ fixtures, leaving fans and analysts questioning Chelle’s decision.

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Onyeka was a standout figure throughout the 90-minute battle at the WWK Arena, showing his versatility, tenacity, and technical prowess. 

From breaking up play to driving forward with purpose, the 27-year-old proved he’s in prime form, exactly the kind of energy the Super Eagles could have harnessed.

Key Moments from Onyeka’s Performance

• First Shot on Target: Onyeka fired Augsburg’s first meaningful effort, striking from a tight angle inside the Wolfsburg box after 22 minutes. Though goalkeeper Kamil Grabara punched it clear, it signalled his intent early on.

• Dazzling Skill: On the edge of the Wolfsburg area, Onyeka nutmegged his marker, breezed past two defenders, and attempted a cross. Though blocked by Denis Vavro, it highlighted his ability to unlock defences in the 49th minute of the game.

• Leading the Charge: Onyeka won possession in midfield, linked up with Phillip Tietz in a slick one-two, and surged down the left flank. His cross was cleared, but the move epitomised his relentless drive.

While clear-cut chances were scarce, Onyeka’s growing influence helped Augsburg wrest momentum from a Wolfsburg side that had started brighter.

Onyeka’s Game by Numbers

Onyeka’s stats paint a picture of a complete midfielder dominating proceedings:

• 87% pass accuracy, with 4 passes into the final third, 1 key pass, and 1 chance created.

• Defensive solidity: 2 tackles, 1 block, 2 interceptions, and 4 recoveries.

What the Super Eagles Will Miss

Onyeka’s omission from the Super Eagles squad is a head-scratcher, and this performance amplifies the void Nigeria will feel. 

His blend of physicality, ball-carrying ability, and defensive nous makes him a unique asset in midfield, a role where the Super Eagles have often lacked dynamism. 

Against Wolfsburg, he was the heartbeat of Augsburg’s engine room, winning duels (10) and completing dribbles (4) at a rate that would trouble any international opponent. 

His capacity to transition play, evidenced by four passes into the final third and a chance created, offers the attacking spark Nigeria has missed in recent outings.

Defensively, Onyeka’s two interceptions and four recoveries highlight his ability to break opposition momentum, a trait vital that could have proven invaluable to the Eagles. 

His knack for drawing fouls (the most on the pitch) also disrupts rhythm, giving Nigeria a tactical edge in tight games. 

Without him, the Super Eagles risk lacking the combative edge and flair he brings, potentially leaving them vulnerable in midfield battles during the key qualifiers.

Chelle’s decision looks increasingly misguided as Onyeka proves his worth in the Bundesliga again. 

Nigeria’s loss is Augsburg’s gain, but the Super Eagles faithful will hope this display forces a rethink before it’s too late. For now, Onyeka’s tireless brilliance stands as a bold rebuttal to his national team snub.