Nwakaeme—who was making his fourth start across all competitions for Trabzonspor—also admitted that Galatasaray are a difficult opponent.
By Kehinde Okeowo
Nigerian striker Anthony Nwakaeme has explained how Trabzonspor secured a narrow but significant 2-1 win over reigning Süper Lig champions Galatasaray on Saturday evening.
Speaking after the match at Papara Park, the forward—who provided an assist in the victory—noted that he and his teammates had to work “all week to secure the win”.
Paul Onuachu scored the opening goal within the first four minutes, marking the earliest goal Galatasaray has conceded this season. He rose highest to head home a pinpoint cross from Wagner Pina early in the first half.
His compatriot, Chibuike Nwaiwu, secured the victory with a header in the 62nd minute, after Singo had equalised for the visitors in the 48th minute.
Reacting to the victory, Nwakaeme—who was making his fourth start across all competitions for Trabzonspor—admitted that Galatasaray are a difficult opponent.
“It was a very important match. We were aware of that. Galatasaray are a good team,” Nwakaeme stated, as reported by Fanatik. “We worked all week to secure the win. We understood that a victory would bring us much closer to our opponent. We are very pleased for our city and our team.”
Reflecting on the team’s mindset, Nwakaeme highlighted the familial bond within the squad:
“It wasn’t a surprising atmosphere at all. Everyone, regardless of whether they played or not, was eager to win. That’s the essence of being a family, and that’s what transpired today.”
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Looking forward, Nwakaeme underscored the necessity of maintaining focus and consistency in upcoming fixtures.
“Every match holds significance. We have taken the first and crucial step. There are six weeks remaining. We’ll begin with Alanyaspor; we’ll approach it one match at a time and aim to win every game.”
Meanwhile, Onuachu’s goal against Galatasaray represents a landmark moment in his career at Trabzonspor.
The Nigerian international had previously been unable to score against the Turkish champions in any of their prior meetings.
However, according to Fanatik, the 31-year-old’s strike means he has now scored against all three of Turkey’s traditional “Big Three” clubs, having previously netted twice in three matches against Fenerbahçe and once against Beşiktaş this season.
The goal takes Onuachu’s tally to 22 in the domestic league this season, extending his lead at the top of the scoring charts ahead of İstanbul Başakşehir’s Eldor Shomurodov, who has 16 goals.
Trabzonspor’s victory over Galatasaray narrows the gap to just one point between the rivals, although the Istanbul club still holds a match in hand.
