Raphael Onyedika’s performance came under intense scrutiny during Club Brugge’s 3-2 win over Royal Antwerp in the Belgian league playoffs, with head coach Nicky Hayen openly criticizing the Nigerian midfielder for a costly mistake that nearly changed the course of the match.
In what initially appeared to be a routine victory for Brugge, who led 3-0 at one point, Onyedika handed the opposition a lifeline with an unforced error deep in his own half.
The misplaced pass allowed Antwerp to capitalize and score their first goal, shifting momentum in a game that had otherwise been under complete control.
“This kind of mistake is unacceptable at this level,” Hayen said during his post-match remarks. “It’s not the first time he’s done this.
If Raphael wants to grow as a player, these errors need to be eliminated from his game.”
The 22-year-old midfielder was substituted in the 82nd minute, but the criticism didn’t end with him. Hayen also pointed fingers at Greek striker Christos Tzolis,
whose own mistake led to Antwerp’s second goal and added further drama to an encounter that should have been comfortably sealed.
“The game went from 3-0 to 3-2, and suddenly it felt like a cup tie,” Hayen noted with frustration. “An equalizer felt inevitable.
I sometimes wonder whether my players enjoy putting themselves under pressure with this kind of unnecessary suspense.”
While the result ultimately went in Brugge’s favor, the late lapses left a sour taste and raised concerns about composure and concentration in high-stakes matches.
Onyedika, who has been a regular presence in the midfield this season, now faces increased pressure to respond with more assured performances in the remaining fixtures.
The coach’s public rebuke highlights the high expectations at the club as they chase domestic success.
With the playoffs still wide open, any drop in focus can be costly, and Hayen made it clear that such errors are no longer tolerable, regardless of the final result.
As Club Brugge look to maintain momentum in their push for the title, Onyedika will be expected to bounce back and demonstrate the maturity and consistency his manager is demanding.
