Raphael Onyedika opens Club Brugge’s goal account with brace

The defensive midfielder hit target in the 61st and 89th minutes, his first-ever league goals since moving to Brugge from FC Midtjylland in June 2022.

With this stellar performance, Onyedika has now netted four goals and provided an assist across all competitions this season, solidifying his importance to the team.

In his first season, Onyedika made 38 appearances, recording a goal and two assists.

The 22-year-old has been linked with several top European clubs including Barcelona, Nottingham Forest, Galatasaray, Crystal Palace and Everton, as a result of his performances for Club Brugge.

It was Club Brugge’s first home win against Anderlecht since October 2020. Thanks to two stunning goals from the Nigerian international and Bradon Mechele, the Bleuw-Zwart secured a three-point victory for the Bruges-based club

The win has lifted Club Brugge to third place in the standings with 29 points, same as fourth-placed Genk, who have an inferior goals’ difference.

Reflecting on his performance and brace, Onyedika expressed his satisfaction with his progress but also conveyed his hunger for more success.

“To me personally, it’s nice to be elected MVP today, but it’s really just a footnote in what has been an excellent game in which we have fought as a team and managed to claim that win,” said the Super Eagles star, as quoted by Club Brugge’s official page.

“I’ve had a number of fine games so far this season, and I have always kept working hard, but the two goals today really highlighted today’s performance.

“I’m just really happy that I have been able to help out the team today. My first two goals of the season too, but I long for more. I was left all alone when I scored that second, and I immediately knew I had to go for it, as you should always give it a go in that position.

“When that ball then sails past the goalie in goal, you just float away. The same goes for that second goal, as I was brimming with confidence on the pitch.”

Club Brugge will host William Troost Ekong’s PAOK FC in Belgium for their European Conference League playoff on Thursday, with Onyedika aiming to continue his impressive form.