Raphael Onyedika produced a standout display as Club Brugge crushed Rangers 6-0 in their UEFA Champions League second-leg playoff on Wednesday.
The Nigerian midfielder capped his performance with an assist as he guided the Belgian champions to a dominant 9-1 aggregate victory and a well-deserved spot in the group stage.
For the Super Eagles’ coaching crew, there was more encouraging news as striker Cyriel Dessers made a return to Rangers’ squad after recovering from injury. Although he did not feature, his presence on the bench was a boost for the Nigerian camp.
In addition, 18-year-old Kaye Furo, son of former Super Eagles defender Furo Iyenemi, was also named among Club Brugge’s substitutes.
Onyedika’s influence as Brugge march on
Onyedika’s contribution came in the 45th minute when he delivered a precise assist for Brugge’s fourth goal. With Club Brugge now set for the group stage, the 22-year-old will get further opportunities to test himself against Europe’s best.
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While Brugge celebrated, Rangers were left frustrated, unable to find answers to their opponents’ relentless attacking play. Dessers’ return to the squad, however, signals progress for the Scottish side and could provide depth as they regroup for domestic challenges.
Otele’s struggles with Basel in Copenhagen defeat
Meanwhile, Nigerian winger Philip Otele featured for FC Basel in their crucial playoff clash against FC Copenhagen. Unfortunately, Basel were unable to rise to the occasion, suffering a 2-0 away defeat.
The loss meant Otele and his teammates crashed out 3-1 on aggregate. This ended their hopes of reaching the Champions League group stage.
Tags: Philip Otele, Raphael Onyedika, Club Brugge, Basel, Cyriel Dessers, Rangers, Kaye Furo, #UCLQualifiers, #ChampionsLeague.
