Super Eagles striker Tolu Arokodare was Genk’s hero yet again, scoring a crucial late equaliser to earn his side a 1–1 draw away to Royal Antwerp in the Belgian Championship Playoffs. Speaking after the match, the forward admitted the result was far from ideal but noted that it could have been worse.
“It’s not a good result, but it’s not a bad result either,” Arokodare told DAZN. “They could’ve taken the lead from the penalty, so we can’t complain too much.”
Antwerp had the chance to put the game beyond Genk’s reach, but their spot-kick was saved, keeping the visitors alive. Arokodare, who has often led Genk’s line solo this season, again shouldered the responsibility in attack and made his presence felt when it mattered most.
Reflecting on the game, he acknowledged the pressure from Antwerp’s intense start, especially in front of their home crowd. “It’s normal that they start so fiercely. They play at home, with fans who support them from start to finish.”
Arokodare urged his teammates to quickly shift focus to their next game as the playoffs leave little room for error. “The result is what it is. The focus now has to be completely on Sunday. Another match awaits.”
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Editorial
Tolu Arokodare has become the kind of striker every team needs—resilient, aware, and clutch when it counts. His late equaliser against Antwerp wasn’t just about saving a point; it was about sending a message: Genk are still in the fight, and so is he.
The Nigerian forward’s comments after the game showed a maturity that extends beyond the goal itself. He recognised the flaws in Genk’s performance, gave credit to their opponents, and pointed forward instead of looking back. That’s the kind of leadership you want from your frontman, especially in a tight championship race.
What’s more impressive is his ability to thrive in a lone-striker system—a demanding role that requires not just strength and stamina, but high football IQ. Week in, week out, Arokodare plays as Genk’s target, outlet, and finisher. His consistency deserves more spotlight, both at club level and within Nigerian football circles.
In a season filled with narrow margins, this draw might be the difference between silverware and near-misses. For Genk, it’s a lifeline. For Arokodare, it’s just another day proving why he belongs at the top.
Did You Know?
- Tolu Arokodare began his European career in Latvia with Valmiera FC before moving to France and then Belgium.
- Genk’s most recent Belgian Pro League title came in the 2018–19 season.
- The Belgian Championship Playoffs feature the league’s top six teams in a mini-league to determine the champion and European places.
- Royal Antwerp are the reigning Belgian champions, having won the league title in dramatic fashion in 2023.
- Arokodare has scored more than 20 goals across all competitions in Belgium since joining Genk.
