Raphael Onyedika Shines As Club Brugge Crush Monaco 4-1 In Champions League Opener

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By Sedara Philip

Super Eagles midfielder Raphael Onyedika delivered a commanding performance and found the back of the net as Club Brugge secured a stunning 4-1 victory over AS Monaco in their UEFA Champions League group opener at the Jan Breydelstadion on Wednesday night.

Coming into the fixture on the back of two winless games, Brugge showed no signs of hesitation as they put on a ruthless attacking display against the Ligue 1 side. The Belgian champions were three goals up by halftime, with Nicolo Tresoldi, Raphael Onyedika, and captain Hans Vanaken all on target.

Monaco could have seized an early advantage when Simon Mignolet brought down Mika Biereth inside the penalty area. However, the veteran goalkeeper redeemed himself by saving Maghnes Akliouche’s spot-kick. Moments later, misfortune struck as Mignolet suffered a groin injury, forcing manager Nicky Hayen to introduce substitute keeper Nordin Jackers.

Brugge broke the deadlock in the 32nd minute when 19-year-old Nicolo Tresoldi marked his Champions League debut with a composed finish. The hosts doubled their advantage nine minutes later, with Onyedika pouncing on a loose ball in the box to bundle home. Vanaken then added a thunderous third just before the break, effectively putting the tie beyond Monaco’s reach.

Despite making changes in the second half — including introducing Nigerian-eligible striker George Illenikhena — Monaco struggled to create momentum. Instead, Brugge extended their lead in the 75th minute through another debutant, Mamadou Diakhon, who scored with a confident finish to make it 4-0.

Barcelona loanee Ansu Fati struck late for Monaco to salvage some pride, but his consolation goal did little to overshadow Brugge’s dominant display.

The emphatic result sends a strong statement of intent from Club Brugge, who celebrated in front of their home crowd with hopes of progressing deep into the competition. For Onyedika, the goal and performance further underline his growing influence as a key figure for both club and country.