Chelle targets Onyeka for Super Eagles No. 10 after 3-1 MOTM display

Francis Onyeka, 19, scored twice for SV Elversberg after coming off the bench. His goals secured a 3-1 German Cup victory over MSV Duisburg, and he was named player of the match.

The performance has strengthened Nigeria head coach Eric Chelle’s interest in the Germany-born midfielder. Chelle regards Onyeka as a leading option for the playmaker position and wants him to become the Super Eagles’ next No. 10.

Onyeka was born in Germany to Nigerian parents and has represented Germany at several youth levels. He has not played for the German senior national team, leaving his international future open to a possible switch to Nigeria.

The midfielder is currently on loan at newly promoted Bundesliga club SV Elversberg. His two-goal contribution against Duisburg came from the substitutes’ bench and gave Elversberg a three-goal total in the cup tie.

Chelle has not abandoned his efforts to bring Onyeka into the Nigeria setup, but direct communication with the player has not yet been established. Contact with Onyeka or his representative is understood to be the remaining obstacle to discussions.

The coach’s interest is focused on the creative midfield role rather than simply the player’s latest cup performance. Onyeka’s youth international background with Germany means Nigeria would need him to choose the Super Eagles before he could represent them at senior level.