Super Eagles midfielder Raphael Onyedika came under fire from Club Brugge coach Nicky Hayen after a below-par display in their Belgian Championship playoff match against Antwerp. Despite leading 3-0 in the second half, Brugge saw their dominance threatened after Onyedika gave away possession, leading to Antwerp’s first goal in a late fightback.
Coach Hayen expressed clear disappointment with Onyedika’s error, warning that such mistakes cannot continue if the Nigerian hopes to progress further in his career. “That sometimes comes back in his game and that has to come out,” Hayen stated. “Especially when there is little pressure, you have to play without mistakes. And if he wants to take the next step in his career, this is no longer possible.”
Hayen also criticised teammate Tzolis, noting that both players’ errors gave Antwerp a route back into the game. The coach admitted being critical in the dressing room, underlining the need for full concentration during this intense title battle. Brugge are now four points behind Genk after two playoff rounds.
Onyedika, who was substituted in the 82nd minute, will be under scrutiny to bounce back as the playoffs continue.
Editorial
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It’s never easy to receive public criticism, especially in the pressure-cooker atmosphere of a title playoff. But Raphael Onyedika must now show that he can take it in stride and respond the right way on the pitch. Coach Nicky Hayen’s words, while harsh, reflect the razor-thin margins that define elite football.
Onyedika is no stranger to high expectations. Since his arrival at Club Brugge, he’s been lauded for his physicality, defensive positioning, and composure in midfield. But every promising career faces moments like this tests of maturity, growth, and resilience.
Hayen’s critique is not a dismissal; it’s a challenge. The fact that he still believes Onyedika can “take the next step” should be seen as motivation, not condemnation. What happens next is crucial: can the midfielder learn from this mistake, refine his decision-making, and become more efficient in possession?
For the Super Eagles, this is also a timely development. Nigeria needs players who can remain calm and composed under pressure, especially in high stakes matches. Onyedika’s journey through this rough patch could ultimately make him a stronger international asset.
This is football. Errors happen. What defines a player is how he responds.
Did You Know?
- Raphael Onyedika joined Club Brugge from Danish side FC Midtjylland in 2022.
- He was named Danish Superliga Young Player of the Year in the 2021/22 season.
- Club Brugge are Belgium’s most successful club in the modern era, with multiple league titles and regular appearances in UEFA competitions.
- Onyedika has already earned caps for Nigeria’s senior national team, debuting in a friendly against Algeria.
- The Belgian Pro League’s playoff format resets points and intensifies title contention in the final phase of the season.
