Super Eagles striker Rafiu Durosinmi made an immediate impression on his competitive debut for Genk, scoring his side’s only goal in a disappointing 2-1 defeat to Zulte Waregem in the Belgian Pro League.
The 23-year-old Nigerian was one of the few bright spots for Genk, who surrendered their early advantage and ultimately left the pitch empty-handed.
Durosinmi, who joined Genk after a difficult spell with Pisa in Italy, wasted no time announcing his arrival. The striker opened the scoring after meeting a dangerous cross from Japanese winger Junya Ito and calmly applying the finishing touch.
Although Genk were unable to protect their lead, Durosinmi’s performance earned him the man-of-the-match award and provided an encouraging start to his new chapter in Belgium.
Thorup impressed by Durosinmi’s qualities
Genk head coach Jess Thorup was particularly pleased with what he saw from the Nigerian, whose movement and attacking instincts were among the positives from an otherwise frustrating outing.
While praising Ito for the quality of his delivery, Thorup also highlighted the qualities that persuaded Genk to bring Durosinmi to the club.
“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.
Durosinmi’s ability to find the right position and finish the chance against Zulte Waregem offered an early glimpse of what he can bring to the team.
A promising start despite a painful result
For Genk, however, the striker’s promising debut was overshadowed by another frustrating result.
After taking the lead through Durosinmi, Genk failed to maintain control of the game as Zulte Waregem fought back to secure a 2-1 victory.
The defeat will leave Thorup with plenty to work on, but Durosinmi’s individual display gives the coach something positive to build on.
For the former Pisa forward, the challenge now is to turn an impressive first appearance into sustained performances throughout the season.
A goal on his competitive debut, a man-of-the-match award and strong backing from his manager represent an encouraging beginning.
Genk will now hope Durosinmi can build on that start and become the consistent attacking threat they believed they were signing when they brought the Nigerian striker to Belgium.
