Nigerian midfielder Raphael Onyedika scores as Club Brugge stun Monaco in Champions League opener

Super Eagles midfielder Raphael Onyedika produced a standout display on Thursday night, scoring in Club Brugge’s 4-1 demolition of AS Monaco in their UEFA Champions League opener.

The 24-year-old Nigerian struck in the 39th minute to double the Belgian champions’ lead and underline his growing influence at the heart of Nicky Hayen’s side.

Club Brugge took control early at the Jan Breydel Stadium, with Nicolo Tresoldi breaking the deadlock in the 32nd minute.

Onyedika then finished a flowing team move with composure to make it 2-0 before captain Hans Vanaken added a third on the stroke of half-time. Mamadou Diakhon struck midway through the second half to cap a dominant display and all but seal the points.

Ansu Fati managed a late consolation for Monaco in stoppage time after his deflected strike wrong-footed the Brugge goalkeeper.

Onyedika’s goal was another statement of intent from a midfielder increasingly trusted to deliver on Europe’s biggest stage.

His tireless pressing, ability to break forward and calm finishing helped Brugge dictate the contest and showcased his evolution into one of the club’s key players.

There was also a glimpse of future Nigerian interest for Brugge. Kaye Furo, son of former Super Eagles defender Furo Iyenemi, was named among the substitutes but did not feature.

The 18-year-old forward, who represented Belgium at youth level and is provisionally cap-tied to the Red Devils, continues to develop within the club’s ranks.