Club Brugge and Westerlo produced one of the most chaotic matches in recent Belgian Pro League history on Thursday night, playing out an astonishing 5-5 draw.
However, the excitement was marred by an injury to Nigerian midfielder Raphael Onyedika, who was forced off during the first half.
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Onyedika, a key figure in Club Brugge’s midfield, was substituted after picking up a hamstring injury.
According to Belgian outlet HLN, the Super Eagles star is expected to miss upcoming fixtures against Standard Liège in the league and Atalanta in the UEFA Champions League.
His absence could also affect Nigeria’s preparations for next month’s crucial World Cup qualifiers as he Fisayo Dele Bashiru on the treatment room, leaving the lean Super Eagles midfield with furthee depletion.
The 24-year-old defensive midfielder has become a mainstay for Club Brugge since joining from Danish side FC Midtjylland in 2022.
Known for his physical presence and ability to break up opposition play, Onyedika has already made 155 appearances for the Belgian giants, contributing seven goals.
He was particularly impressive in their Champions League opener against AS Monaco, where his commanding display drew widespread praise.
Club Brugge felt his absence almost immediately on Thursday.
After Onyedika left the field, the team conceded four of Westerlo’s five goals, underlining his importance in shielding the defence.
The game itself was a rollercoaster, with both sides trading blows in a contest that will be remembered as one of the highest-scoring draws in Belgian league history.
For Brugge, the bigger concern now lies in how long they will be without their Nigerian anchor.
No official timeline has been given for his recovery, but the club will be desperate to have him back as soon as possible, with both domestic and European ambitions at stake
