‘You Could See the Qualities’ - Genk Coach Praises Durosinmi After Debut Goal

Posted : 11 August 2026

Super Eagles striker Rafiu Durosinmi made an instant impact for KRC Genk by scoring on his competitive debut against Zulte Waregem in the Belgian Pro League. The Nigerian forward opened the scoring, but Genk suffered a 2-1 defeat after conceding twice late in the game.

Durosinmi put Genk ahead after connecting with a cross from Japan international Junya Ito. The finish provided an early indication of the qualities that convinced Genk to make the 23-year-old their record signing this summer.

Genk head coach Jess Thorup highlighted the goal as one of the main positives from the disappointing result. The Danish coach also praised the quality of Ito's delivery before pointing to the attributes Durosinmi displayed in the move.

“[The cross] was top-notch,” Thorup said, while noting that the goal showed the qualities for which Durosinmi was scouted and signed. His comments underline the importance Genk have placed on the Nigerian striker as they begin a new campaign.

Durosinmi joined Genk from Italian club Pisa in July on a four-year contract running until June 2030. The Belgian club confirmed the transfer on July 23 and described the Nigerian as a complete centre-forward who fits its sporting ambitions.

Genk reportedly paid around €10.5 million for the striker, making the transfer a club-record deal. Durosinmi previously enjoyed a productive spell with Viktoria Plzen, where he scored 35 goals and supplied 10 assists in 86 appearances before moving to Italy.

His move to Genk followed a brief spell at Pisa, where he also made an immediate impact. He scored on his Serie A debut against Atalanta in January after joining the Italian club from Viktoria Plzen.

The Belgian side had been looking for a new attacking focal point following the departure of Nigerian striker Tolu Arokodare. Durosinmi now has the opportunity to establish himself as Genk's main goal threat and build on his promising first appearance.

The defeat at Zulte Waregem means Genk began the new Belgian campaign without a point. Thorup will now hope Durosinmi's scoring start can translate into more goals as the club looks to improve its league position and challenge near the top of the Belgian Pro League.

‘You Could See the Qualities’ - Genk Coach Praises Durosinmi After Debut Goal

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