Making his first-ever AFCON start, the Club Brugge star said the moment felt like a reward for years of quiet hard work and patience. His two second-half strikes, coming within just five minutes, completely changed the game and showed he is more than ready for the big stage.
“I feel very happy. I cannot explain how I feel, but this is a moment I have been working towards all my life, and I’m happy that it finally came true,” Onyedika said after the match.
The 24-year-old opened his account in the 62nd minute, connecting with a well-timed through ball from Samuel Chukwueze before calmly slotting the ball through the goalkeeper’s legs. Moments later, the pair combined again as Onyedika was left unmarked inside the box, guiding home Nigeria’s third goal and ending Uganda’s hopes of a comeback.
While his goals stole the headlines, Onyedika spoke more about the personal fulfilment the moment brought.
“It’s about waiting for your opportunity and being ready for whatever comes, because it’s about performing and being ready,” he added.
A Journey of Steady Rise
Onyedika’s road to international recognition has been gradual but inspiring. He made his senior debut in 2022 during a friendly against Algeria, appearing briefly off the bench. His first international goal arrived two years later against Benin Republic in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.
To date, the midfielder has made 19 appearances for the Super Eagles — and now, his AFCON brace stands as a defining moment in his young career.