“The goal is to play European football” – 23-goal Super Eagles striker targets positive end to up-and-down season

Nigeria's leading goalscorer in Europe is not giving up hope of winning a continental ticket for the Smurfs, despite the odds not favoring them

Super Eagles striker Paul Onuachu is convinced KRC Genk are ready for the fight to secure European football next season, despite their inconsistent form over the past year

After a largely forgettable campaign, Genk have gained momentum in recent weeks, winning five and drawing one of their last six games.

Still, two wins in their remaining two playoff matches may not be enough for the Smurfs to beat rivals Gent to the Europa League qualification ticket, with the Buffalos boasting a four-point advantage.

The two teams face each other this Sunday, with Genk counting on home advantage at the Cegeka Arena to blast past Gent and cut the gap between them to one point.

Star striker Onuachu would be crucial to any victory over Gent, with the Nigerian boasting 21 league goals already and 23 in all competitions.

Confidence is high for the 27-year-old, who netted in the 3-2 win over Sporting Charleroi on Friday, and he is hoping a triumph over the visitors can save Genk's season.

“I feel good, score again, and now I have 21 goals. Not bad, right?” Onuachu said, as per Voetbalkrant.

“The goal is still to play European football, and if we win against Gent on Sunday, I think we will fight for a European ticket too.”

Onuachu is the top-scoring Nigerian in Europe, repeating the feat he achieved last term.

Only Saudi Arabia-based Odion Ighalo has scored more goals, with the Al Hilal forward recording 26 goals in his last 35 games across all competitions.