Super Eagles striker, Tolu Arokodare, found the back of the net for KRC Genk in a keenly contested Belgian Pro League Championship playoff encounter against Union Saint-Gilloise at the Cegeka Arena, though it wasn’t enough to prevent his side from suffering a narrow 2-1 defeat.
The fixture was highly anticipated, with both clubs chasing vital points in the race for the league title. However, it was Nigerian-born Canadian international, Promise David, who stole the spotlight on the night with a match-winning performance for Union Saint-Gilloise.
David broke the deadlock in the 42nd minute, confidently dispatching a penalty past Genk’s goalkeeper after a defensive error led to a foul in the box. The forward, who was born in Nigeria but represents Canada at international level, wasn’t done yet.
Just five minutes into the second half, Promise David doubled his tally, clinically finishing off a swift counter-attacking move to complete his brace and hand the visitors a comfortable 2-0 lead. The 23-year-old has now scored an impressive 20 goals across all competitions this season, further enhancing his reputation as one of the league’s most in-form forwards.
Genk struggled to break down a resolute Union Saint-Gilloise defence for much of the game. However, deep into stoppage time, Arokodare latched onto a well-placed cross to pull one back for the home side. It proved to be a mere consolation, as there wasn’t enough time left on the clock for a dramatic comeback.
Despite the defeat, Arokodare’s 19th league goal of the campaign reaffirmed his status as one of the Belgian Pro League’s top scorers. Since his arrival at Genk from French outfit Amiens in early 2023 for a reported fee of €5 million, the 24-year-old has cemented his place as a crucial figure in Thorsten Fink’s squad.
Arokodare’s exploits this season have not gone unnoticed, with reports suggesting several bigger European clubs are keeping a close eye on the towering forward ahead of the summer transfer window. His ability to deliver in crucial moments and his consistent goal-scoring form have made him one of the most talked-about strikers in the Belgian top flight.
On the international stage, Arokodare recently made his debut for the Super Eagles of Nigeria during their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Rwanda on March 21, before featuring again in the subsequent 1-1 draw against Zimbabwe, where he made his home debut.
Following the result, Genk now occupy second position in the Championship playoff standings, having amassed 40 points from 34 games, trailing league leaders Club Brugge by just two points. With a handful of fixtures left, the title race remains delicately poised, and Arokodare’s goals could yet prove decisive in determining Genk’s final standing this season.
Meanwhile, Promise David’s brace not only secured a vital win for Union Saint-Gilloise but also showcased the depth of Nigerian football talent thriving across different countries and leagues globally. David’s remarkable season tally underlines his growing reputation, and he will be crucial to his side’s hopes of finishing strong this campaign.
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