Onyedika scores brace for Club Brugge in Belgian playoff victory over Anderlecht

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Nigeria’s sensational midfielder Raphael Onyedika scored a brace to help Club Brugge past Anderlecht in a Belgian championship playoff match.

Onyedika’s solidity in midfield saw him shield the Club Brugge’s defence against most of Anderlecht’s attacking forays.

He did not just prove dependable in his central midfield/defensive midfield role but showed he can also score goals.

The 22-year-old did not score once but twice as Club Brugge displayed superiority against rivals Anderlecht.

Defender Brandon Mechele drew the first blood in the third minute, setting the tone for Brugge’s victory. Thereafter, both sides pushed, trying to score but failed to do so as the first period ended 1-0.

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Onyedika extended the lead for Club Brugge just past the hour mark after he received Michal Skóraś’ pass. The Polish winger had earlier assisted Mechele’s opener.

The Nigerian then scored his second, completing his brace late in the game to make it 3-0.

Anderlecht paraded the likes of Thomas Delaney, Thorgan Hazard and Kasper Dolberg but failed to score. All three players were substituted even before Anders Dreyer netted the consolation in added time.

Even though Club Brugge missed the services of important players like Skov Olsen and experienced goalkeeper Simon Mignolet, their tenacity and discipline helped see out the huge victory.

Club Brugge are now third on the table, tied with Genk – who are a place below – on 30 points.

🇳🇬Super Eagles midfielder Raphael Onyedika scored twice in Club Brugge's 3-1 win against Anderlecht in Belgium.

The 22-year-old Imo-born player has been an important player for his club since joining from Midtjylland in 2022.#SoarSuperEagles pic.twitter.com/aDwZxwhnr9

— Ayomikun Elemikan🇳🇬 (@ayomikunpress) April 7, 2024

Following heroics against Anderlecht, Club Brugge should value Onyedika more

Overtime, Onyedika’s composure under pressure has been praised. His control and reading of the game makes for interesting viewing.

No wonder manager Jose Peseiro couldn’t overlook him as he called him to join Nigeria’s squad for the AFCON 2023.

Club Brugge had to fight off competition from AC Milan to win the midfielder’s signature in 2022. Earlier this year, reports indicated Barcelona showed interest in Onyedika.