Raphael Onyedika Scores as Club Brugge Crush Monaco in UEFA Champions League

Super Eagles midfielder Raphael Onyedika opened his account for the season on Thursday night, scoring one of the goals as Club Brugge cruised to a 4-1 victory over AS Monaco in the UEFA Champions League group stage.

The Belgian giants were dominant at home, bouncing back from an early scare when Maghnes Akliouche had the chance to put Monaco ahead from the penalty spot. However, his effort was brilliantly saved by veteran goalkeeper Simon Mignolet, a moment that shifted the momentum entirely in Brugge’s favor.

Onyedika on Target for Club Brugge

After Nicolo Tresoldi broke the deadlock in the 32nd minute, Onyedika doubled the advantage just seven minutes later with a well-taken strike that left the Monaco defense scrambling. It was the Nigerian midfielder’s first goal of the season in twelve matches, underlining his growing importance in Carl Hoefkens’ side.

Club captain Hans Vanaken then added a third before halftime, effectively killing Monaco’s hopes of mounting a comeback. In the second half, substitute Mamadou Diakhon put the result beyond doubt with a fourth goal. Monaco could only manage a consolation late on, never recovering from the penalty miss that set the tone of the night.

Onyedika’s Form and Future

Onyedika was strongly linked with a move away from Brugge during the summer transfer window, but the 24-year-old central midfielder eventually stayed with the club. His strike against Monaco comes after he also provided an assist earlier in the campaign during Champions League qualifying against Scotland’s Rangers FC.

The Nigerian international has become a consistent performer in Europe, and Thursday’s goal will only boost his confidence as Brugge look to advance to the knockout stages.

What’s Next for Club Brugge

Following their European triumph, Club Brugge will turn their attention back to domestic duties in the Belgian Jupiler Pro League. They will host Sint Truiden on Sunday before taking on Westerlo three days later, as they aim to maintain momentum in both league and continental competitions.