Super Eagles hopeful Tolu Arokodare put up an inspired performance on Thursday afternoon, bagging a brace as KRC Genk held Royal Antwerp to a thrilling 2-2 draw at the Bosuilstadion.
The lanky striker was at the heart of Genk’s fightback, showcasing his immense quality in front of goal and proving his importance to the Belgian league leaders.
Arokodare was a constant threat throughout his 83-minute outing. His two goals came from a total of nine attempts, with five hitting the target.
Despite missing one big chance, the Nigerian forward’s xG (expected goals) of 1.06 highlighted his efficiency in the box. He also contributed significantly in duels, winning two of four ground challenges and one aerial duel.
While he lost possession 13 times, his ability to maintain a 77% passing accuracy from 22 attempts reflected his growing composure in link-up play.
The brace took Arokodare’s tally for the season to 13 goals in 20 league appearances, firmly placing him atop the Jupiler Pro League’s scoring chart.
This form marks a turning point in his Genk career, having initially struggled with injuries and adaptation after joining the club in January 2023 as Paul Onuachu’s replacement.
Arokodare is chasing Nigerian history
Since his arrival, Arokodare has endured highs and lows. His first half-season was disrupted by injuries, limiting him to just 15 goals across all competitions as Genk missed out on continental qualification.
However, this term, the Lagos-born striker appears to have fully adjusted to the Belgian top flight’s demands, leading Genk’s charge for their first league title since the 2018/19 campaign.
Reflecting on his role in the team, Arokodare remains grounded, insisting personal accolades are secondary.
“It really doesn’t matter who scores. If I score, I’m happy. If I don’t score but give an assist, I’m happy with that. The top scorer’s ranking comes after that,” he told DAZN.
Should Arokodare maintain his form, he could join an elite group of Nigerians to claim the league’s top-scorer accolade.
Paul Onuachu, Joseph Akpala, and Tosin Dosunmu are the only Nigerians to achieve this feat, with Onuachu’s 33-goal haul in the 2020/21 season setting a benchmark.
