South African forward Shandre Campbell played a key role in Club NXT’s hard-fought 3-2 victory over RFC Seraing in the Belgian First Division B on Friday. The 19-year-old delivered a goal and an assist to help his side secure a crucial win in their push for a promotion play-off spot.
Campbell’s Impact
The breakthrough came in the 60th minute when Campbell found the net with a precise low strike from the edge of the penalty area. Just 12 minutes later, the forward turned provider, delivering a well-placed corner for Alejandro Granados, who doubled Club NXT’s advantage.
The victory cements Club NXT’s position in sixth place with 37 points from 23 matches, holding a six-point lead over K. Lierse SK in seventh as the battle for promotion intensifies.
Rising Through the Ranks
Campbell, a South Africa U20 international, has been a standout performer in Belgium’s Challenger Pro League this season. With seven goals and two assists in 17 league appearances, he has emerged as Club NXT’s joint-top scorer alongside Lenn De Smet and Lynnt Audoor.
Since his arrival from SuperSport United in July 2024, Campbell has made swift progress, earning a promotion to Club Brugge’s senior squad in February 2025.
He made his first-team debut as a late substitute against St-Truiden and followed it up with another appearance off the bench in a 1-1 draw with Gent.
Champions League Hopes
Campbell’s performances have not gone unnoticed, as he was named among the substitutes for Club Brugge’s UEFA Champions League last-16 first-leg clash against Aston Villa. I
t remains uncertain whether he will be included in the squad for the return leg at Villa Park on Wednesday.
The Belgian champions face an uphill battle after suffering a 3-1 home defeat in the first leg, with goals from Leon Bailey and Marco Asensio, as well as a Brandon Mechele own goal, putting them on the back foot.
As Club Brugge fight to overturn the deficit, Campbell’s rapid rise suggests he could soon be making his mark on the biggest stage.
