Club Brugge’s Raphael Onyedika has been named in the squad for this evening’s UEFA Champions League Round of 16 first-leg tie against Aston Villa following his return to full training. The Nigerian midfielder had sustained a thigh injury after a league fixture against Standard Liège, and missed the recent league match versus KAA Gent. Manager Nicky Hayen confirmed that Onyedika “in principle…can play,” after assessing his recovery at a pre-match press briefing .
He had missed Club Brugge’s defeat to Gent but has now been cleared to face the Premier League side at the Jan Breydelstadion. Onyedika’s return is a timely boost not only for his club but also for the Super Eagles, as he had been named in Nigeria’s squad ahead of critical 2026 World Cup qualifiers versus Rwanda and Zimbabwe.
Editorial
We recognise how pivotal Onyedika’s return is not only for Club Brugge’s European ambitions, but for the future of Nigeria’s midfield. His recovery comes at a crucial juncture, and we appreciate the delicate balance between caution and urgency that both club and country must manage.
His defensive stability is the kind of backbone every team needs in high-stakes matches such as the Champions League. We trust that his manager’s decision to reintegrate him is rooted in sound medical assurance and strategic necessity. Now, with the world watching, we must allow his return to ignite momentum—not just tonight, but for what may follow.
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Nigeria fans can also draw confidence from his readiness, as his form could prove invaluable in upcoming qualifiers. Let this comeback sow belief, and let us stand behind him as he fortifies the midfield with grit and precision.
Did You Know?
- Raphael Onyedika emerged from the Nigerian academy F.C. Ebedei before progressing to Europe via Midtjylland. His transition illustrates the quality of Nigeria’s football development networks.
- In the 2023–24 season, he helped Club Brugge win the Belgian Pro League, adding domestic silverware to his early career highlights .
- He made his senior debut for Nigeria in September 2022, coming off the bench against Algeria in a friendly fixture.
- Onyedika earned the “Midfielder of the Season” award on EaglesTracker for his work during the 2023–24 campaign, a tribute to his impact and consistency.
- At the senior international level, he has collected 16 caps and scored once underscoring his growing influence in midfield for the Super Eagles.
