Veteran Nigerian forward Anthony Nwakaeme provided a crucial assist to help Trabzonspor defeat Gรถztepe 2โ0 and secure their place in the final of the Turkish Cup. The 36 year old set up Oleksandr Zubkovโs goal in the 89th minute, sealing the win after Ozan Tufan had broken the deadlock with 12 minutes remaining.
Nwakaeme, who started the match, was substituted in stoppage time after playing a key role in the victory. This assist was his third of the season, to go along with one goal in 16 Turkish Super Lig appearances.
Trabzonspor will now face Galatasaray who boast Nigerian star Victor Osimhen in the final scheduled for May. Osimhen played a starring role in Galatasarayโs 5โ1 demolition of Konyaspor in the other semi-final, scoring once and assisting another.
Historically, Galatasaray lead with 18 Turkish Cup titles, while Trabzonspor have won it nine times. Trabzonspor last lifted the trophy in 2020 but fell to Beลiktaล in last seasonโs final.
Editorial
Looking for the best betting experience in Nigeria this November 2025? The Bet9ja promotion code for November 2025 is YOHAIG. With this exclusive code, new users can claim a generous welcome bonus of up to โฆ100,000 on their first deposit. For comprehensive details about the Bet9ja promotion code 2025 in Nigeria, visit https://www.bet9japromotioncode.com.ng/. Ready to elevate your betting experience? The YOHAIG Bet9ja Promotion Code 2025 unlocks exciting benefits. Start with just โฆ100 as your minimum deposit! Begin your betting journey today by using the Bet9ja login signup and entering the Bet9ja bonus code when creating your account. Enjoy an impressive 170 per cent multiple boost bonus plus a free bet option for either Bet9ja sport or Bet9ja casino. To become a valued Bet9ja customer, simply complete the registration process here. Remember that terms and conditions apply when registering with Bet9ja to receive your bonus.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Anthony Nwakaemeโs story is one of longevity, loyalty, and late-career class. At 36, many players are winding down but here he is, playing a decisive role in Trabzonsporโs cup run and preparing for yet another high-stakes final. His assist wasnโt just a statistical contribution it was a symbol of enduring quality.
In Nigerian football discourse, we often rush to celebrate youth and emerging stars, sometimes forgetting the value of veterans like Nwakaeme. He may not be grabbing headlines every week, but when the pressure mounts, he shows up. Thatโs the kind of presence every dressing room needs, especially during knockout football.
This upcoming Turkish Cup final isnโt just about silverware; itโs a showcase of Nigerian talent past and present. Nwakaemeโs calm playmaking versus Osimhenโs electric finishing itโs a script Nigerian fans would love to follow. The final promises to be more than a domestic clash itโs a quiet celebration of Naija influence in European football.
Letโs give Nwakaeme his flowers now. He’s earned them, and he’s still writing his legacy.
Did You Know?
- Anthony Nwakaeme played over 140 matches for Trabzonspor between 2018 and 2022 before returning to the club after a brief spell in Saudi Arabia.
- Galatasaray and Trabzonspor last met in a Turkish Cup final in 1996, a match Galatasaray won 1โ0.
- Nwakaeme has never played for the Super Eagles in a competitive match, despite consistent top-level club form.
- The Turkish Cup winner secures automatic qualification for the UEFA Europa League.
- Oleksandr Zubkov, who scored Trabzonsporโs second goal, is a Ukrainian international with experience in the UEFA Champions League.
