Nwakali scored his first goal since April 27, when he scored for Casa Pia in a 3-1 defeat to Chaves in Portugal.
Nigerian midfielder Kelechi Nwakali has ended a prolonged goal drought with a spectacular strike, in a comeback victory for Barnsley against Exeter City on Saturday.
The 2-1 win at St James Park marks Nwakali's first goal since April 27 and helped Barnsley move closer to the League One playoff spots.
The 25-year-old, who joined Barnsley on a three-year deal this summer after a stint with Portuguese side Casa Pia, was handed his first league start by manager Darrell Clarke.
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Nwakali replaced the suspended Adam Phillips in the starting lineup and seized the opportunity with both hands.
Exeter City 1-2 Barnsley
Barnsley found themselves trailing early in the match after Josh Magennis capitalised on a deflected free-kick to put Exeter City ahead in the 13th minute. The first half proved frustrating for the visitors, who struggled to break down a resolute Exeter defense.
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However, the tide turned dramatically just five minutes after the restart. Nwakali received the ball outside the box and unleashed a thunderous 25-yard strike that nestled perfectly into the bottom left corner of the net.
The stunning goal not only leveled the score but also injected renewed energy into the Barnsley side.
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The momentum shifted decisively in Barnsley's favour, and they capitalised just eight minutes later. Davis Keillor-Dunn found the back of the net, completing the comeback and securing a vital three points for the visitors.
The victory marks Barnsley's first come-from-behind win of the season, ending a frustrating six-game winless streak.
Nwakali reacts to first goal since April
For Nwakali, the goal carries a great personal importance as it marks his first goal since April 27, when he scored for Casa Pia in a 3-1 defeat to Chaves in Portugal.
Nwakali expressed his joy on social media platform X, writing, “Thanks to God. First goal, three points. Come on you Reds.”
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The former Arsenal player, who won the Golden Ball at the 2015 FIFA U17 World Cup, faced challenges breaking into the Gunners' first team due to work permit issues.
Despite a three-year stint at the Emirates Stadium, he never made a senior appearance for the club, instead spending time on loan at MVV Maastricht, VVV Venlo, and Porto B.
After leaving Arsenal, Nwakali sought opportunities elsewhere, eventually finding his way to Barnsley.
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He finally made his EFL debut in October, appearing as a stoppage-time substitute in a 2-0 win against Shrewsbury Town.
However, the game against Exeter City marked his first league start and provided the platform for his impactful performance.
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