Super Eagles and Brentford midfielder Frank Onyeka has opened up on why he rarely steps up for penalties, shedding light on how spot-kick takers are chosen within the Nigerian national team.
The 28-year-old midfielder spoke candidly about Nigeria’s struggles from the penalty spot in recent months, revealing that the responsibility is often left to players who feel mentally ready at the moment rather than being strictly assigned.
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Nigeria have endured mixed fortunes in shootouts under head coach Eric Chelle. Penalty misses proved costly against DR Congo in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers and again versus Morocco, denying the Super Eagles a place in the AFCON final.
However, there was redemption in the third-place playoff against Egypt, where goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali emerged as the hero.
Reflecting on the painful loss to Morocco, Onyeka admitted it was a tough experience for the team.
“Tactically, Morocco were very good. They knew what we wanted to do and closed us down well. The referee also disrupted our momentum at key moments, which worked in their favour,” Onyeka said in an interview with Oma Akatugba.
“They deserved credit because they executed their plan perfectly.”
On the subject of penalties, Onyeka revealed why he often stays away from the responsibility.
“I’ve never taken a penalty in my life. They don’t really pick me, and I also try not to involve myself,” he admitted.
“But it’s something I know I need to work on. I need to trust myself when the opportunity comes.”
The former FC Midtjylland midfielder explained that Chelle’s approach is largely player-driven.
“Sometimes the coach asks who wants to take the penalty, and other times he decides. If you’re not feeling confident, you can opt out. Most times, the players choose themselves because of the pressure involved.”
Onyeka, who has scored three goals in 41 appearances for the Super Eagles, is now focused on cementing his place both with Nigeria and at Brentford, where he hopes to secure a regular starting role after the AFCON 2025 tournament.
The midfielder’s honest admission highlights the mental demands of penalty-taking and offers insight into the Super Eagles’ decision-making process during high-pressure moments.
