Super Eagles: Durosinmi singled out despite Genk defeat to Zulte Waregem

Rafiu Durosinmi. Copyright: Imago

Super Eagles striker Rafiu Durosinmi was singled out as one of the positives from Genk’s disappointing 2-1 defeat to Zulte Waregem in the Belgian Pro League, Soccernet.ng reports.

The 23-year-old marked his competitive debut for Genk in impressive fashion, opening the scoring after connecting with a cross from Japanese winger Junya Ito.

Genk, however, were unable to hold on to their advantage as Zulte Waregem fought back to claim all three points. Despite the defeat, Genk head coach Jess Thorup was pleased with what he saw from Durosinmi and highlighted the qualities that convinced the Belgian club to sign him.

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Soccer Durosinmi makes instant impact for Genk

Durosinmi was handed his competitive debut after joining Genk following a poor spell with Pisa in Italy, as they were relegated to the Serie B

The Nigerian International wasted little time making his presence felt, finding the net to give his new side the lead. The goal came from a well-delivered cross by Ito, with Durosinmi applying the finishing touch to put Genk ahead.

Thorup praised the quality of the Japanese winger’s delivery but also pointed to the Nigerian’s individual qualities.

“Ito’s left-footed cross was also top-notch. But there you could see the qualities on which Durosinmi was scouted and signed,” Thorup said in quotes revealed by Voetbalnieuws.

The coach’s comments underline the expectations surrounding the Nigerian striker, who was brought in to provide another attacking option for Genk.

Soccer Super Eagles striker faces challenge to build on debut

While his goal provided an encouraging start to his Genk career, the result ultimately overshadowed his individual contribution, despite him getting the man-of-the-match award.

Genk surrendered their lead and eventually suffered a 2-1 defeat, leaving Thorup with plenty to address despite the promising display from his new striker.

For the ex-Pisa man, the task will be to build on his debut performance and establish himself as an important figure in Genk’s attack.

His ability to make an immediate impact should give the Nigerian confidence ahead of the club’s next fixtures. At the same time, Genk will hope the striker can continue to provide a consistent attacking threat.

Adefolahan Guerreiro

Adefolahan is a multilingual CAF-Accredited sports journalist and football writer whose work spans outlets like Soccernet Nigeria, Pure Football UK, and Royalsportz.

With a sharp eye for detail and a background in college sports, he tells the African football story with depth, flair, and global perspective.

Fluent in English, Spanish, and German, he brings a cross-cultural voice to his coverage, blending insight with accessibility for readers around the world.
His portfolio includes interviews with top Nigerian stars like Finidi George, Junior Lokosa, Sikiru Alimi, Sodiq Ismaila, and Abraham Onahi Ogbu.

A devoted Borussia Dortmund fan, Adefolahan thrives on the emotion and rhythm of the beautiful game. Away from work, he’s a sci-fi enthusiast and series lover who enjoys exploring how sport, storytelling, and culture collide.