Super Eagles: Durosinmi singled out despite Genk defeat to Zulte Waregem

Super Eagles striker Rafiu Durosinmi was singled out as one of the positives from Genk’s disappointing 2-1 defeat to Zulte Waregem in the Belgian Pro League, Soccernet.ng reports.

The 23-year-old marked his competitive debut for Genk in impressive fashion, opening the scoring after connecting with a cross from Japanese winger Junya Ito.

Genk, however, were unable to hold on to their advantage as Zulte Waregem fought back to claim all three points. Despite the defeat, Genk head coach Jess Thorup was pleased with what he saw from Durosinmi and highlighted the qualities that convinced the Belgian club to sign him.

Genk's Rafiu Durosinmi celebrates after scoring. Copyright: Imago

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Durosinmi makes instant impact for Genk

Durosinmi was handed his competitive debut after joining Genk following a poor spell with Pisa in Italy, as they were relegated to the Serie B

The Nigerian International wasted little time making his presence felt, finding the net to give his new side the lead. The goal came from a well-delivered cross by Ito, with Durosinmi applying the finishing touch to put Genk ahead.

Thorup praised the quality of the Japanese winger's delivery but also pointed to the Nigerian's individual qualities.

“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 in quotes revealed by Voetbalnieuws.

The coach's comments underline the expectations surrounding the Nigerian striker, who was brought in to provide another attacking option for Genk.

Genk's Rafiu Durosinmi celebrates after scoring. Copyright: Imago

Super Eagles striker faces challenge to build on debut

While his goal provided an encouraging start to his Genk career, the result ultimately overshadowed his individual contribution, despite him getting the man-of-the-match award.

Genk surrendered their lead and eventually suffered a 2-1 defeat, leaving Thorup with plenty to address despite the promising display from his new striker.

For the ex-Pisa man, the task will be to build on his debut performance and establish himself as an important figure in Genk's attack.

Rafiu Durosinmi. Copyright: Imago

His ability to make an immediate impact should give the Nigerian confidence ahead of the club's next fixtures. At the same time, Genk will hope the striker can continue to provide a consistent attacking threat.