The Super Eagles striker finally finds the net, but the Saints’ relegation battle intensifies.

After 658 days without a goal in the Premier League, Nigerian striker Paul Onuachu finally broke his duck for Southampton. But his long-awaited header against Nottingham Forest was a bittersweet moment as the Saints suffered yet another defeat in their fight for survival.

Onuachu, who joined Southampton during the January 2022-23 transfer window, had been under intense scrutiny for his lack of impact. The towering forward returned to St. Mary’s this season after a successful loan spell at Trabzonspor, where he netted 17 goals and provided four assists. However, his Premier League breakthrough had remained elusive—until now.

In the 92nd minute, with Southampton trailing 2-0, Mateus Fernandes delivered a pinpoint cross into the box. Onuachu leaped above Forest’s defenders to power a header into the net, securing his first goal in England’s top flight. Unfortunately for the Saints, his late strike was little more than a consolation, as the match ended in a 2-1 defeat.

Despite Onuachu’s personal milestone, the loss plunged Southampton deeper into the relegation zone. With just six points from 22 matches, the pressure continues to mount on manager Ivan Jurić and his team to turn things around.

For Onuachu, this goal may serve as a confidence boost, but for Southampton, the clock is ticking as they battle to stay in the Premier League.