Veteran Nigerian forward Anthony Nwakaeme provided a crucial assist to help Trabzonspor defeat Göztepe 2–0 and secure their place in the final of the Turkish Cup. The 36 year old set up Oleksandr Zubkov’s 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 Galatasaray’s 5–1 demolition of Konyaspor in the other semi-final, scoring once and assisting another.
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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 Beşiktaş in last season’s final.
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Editorial
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Anthony Nwakaeme’s 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 Trabzonspor’s cup run and preparing for yet another high-stakes final. His assist wasn’t just a statistical contribution it was a symbol of enduring quality.
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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. That’s the kind of presence every dressing room needs, especially during knockout football.
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This upcoming Turkish Cup final isn’t just about silverware