Brentford midfielder Frank Onyeka has admitted that players who struggle for minutes at club level always have something to prove, Soccernet.ng exclusively reports.
This follows his standout display for Nigeria in their hard-fought 3–2 victory over Tunisia at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
The Super Eagles midfielder, who has seen limited action at Brentford this season, played a key role as Nigeria sealed qualification for the Round of 16 with a game to spare.
Onyeka opens up on limited playing time at Brentford
Onyeka has made just nine appearances for Brentford this season, registering two assists, with only six of those outings coming in the Premier League, where he has provided one assist. Brentford currently sit eighth in the Premier League, with 26 points from 18 matches.
Asked how he has managed to stay sharp despite limited minutes at club level, Onyeka pointed to the hard work he puts in on the training ground and his mental readiness.
“I try to train hard because I know opportunities like this will come any time,” Onyeka said to Soccernet.ng. “I’m just happy that I’m getting game time here, which is good. I’m always fit whenever I’m called upon to play.”
When pressed on whether he had a point to prove after not featuring regularly for Brentford, the midfielder was honest.
“Every player has a point to prove if they’re not playing in that team,” he added. “But right now, I’m just trying to help my team and hopefully we can get into the next round and go far in the AFCON.”
Watch Onyeka’s comment on Brentford’s minutes here:
Onyeka’s impact against Tunisia
Onyeka justified his inclusion in Eric Chelle’s starting XI as Nigeria switched to a three-man midfield against Tunisia.
His energy, ball recovery, and discipline helped the Super Eagles dominate large spells of the game before a tense finish.
Nigeria raced into a 3–0 lead through goals from Victor Osimhen, Wilfred Ndidi, and Ademola Lookman before Tunisia mounted a late push.
Despite the pressure, Onyeka remained composed, helping Nigeria secure all three points and see out the contest.
His display earned praise from teammates, including Nantes defender Chidozie Awaziem, who described Onyeka’s contribution as “exceptional”.
“Exceptional. We all know the quality Frank Onyeka has. He gave everything he had to help the team, and I think he came through really well,” Awaziem said to Soccernet.ng.
On Ndidi’s Kanu-style celebration
Onyeka also reacted to Wilfred Ndidi’s goal and his iconic celebration, which mirrored Nwankwo Kanu’s famous moment against Brazil at the 1996 Atlanta Olympics.
“I learnt a lot from Wilfred,” Onyeka said. “I’m happy for him — he scored today, which is good. We’ll celebrate after.”
When asked if Ndidi’s celebration was planned, Onyeka played it down.
“No, I don’t think he planned to score today, but it just happened. I’m happy for him, getting the goal.”
Nigeria will now turn their attention to their final Group C fixture against Uganda, with Onyeka hopeful that the Super Eagles can continue their momentum deep into the tournament.