Former Leeds United forward, Sue Smith, has hailed Nigerian midfielder Frank Onyeka for his assist in Brentford's 2-1 loss to Sunderland in Saturday's Premier League clash at the Stadium of Light.
Onyeka, who came off the bench to replace Jordan Henderson in the second half, set up the opening goal of the match in the 77th minute.
The Super Eagles star delivered a pinpoint cross into the box, which Igor Thiago expertly headed past the Sunderland goalkeeper Robin Roefs to give the visitors a temporary lead.
Speaking on Soccer Saturday, Smith highlighted the quality of Brentford’s attacking build-up and singled out Onyeka’s cross for praise.
"This is really good play - intricate passing on the right hand side from Brentford," Smith said on [Sky Sports](https://www.skysports.com/football/sunderland-vs-brentford/live/531156).
"Thiago heads it home after a great delivery from Onyeka.”
Despite Brentford’s opener, the Bees were undone by a late Sunderland comeback.
Goals from Enzo Le Fée and Wilson Isidor turned the game on its head, handing the home side all three points to the delight of their fans.
Onyeka will take encouragement from his contribution as he joins up with Nigeria for international duty.
The 27-year-old has been named in the Super Eagles’ 23-man squad for the crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against South Africa and Rwanda.
With Nigeria facing the risk of missing out on the global showpiece, Onyeka will be eager to replicate his club form and play a key role in helping the Super Eagles secure vital victories in both fixtures.
Adeyemi Adewale
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