Raphael Onyedika’s commanding performance in Club Brugge’s 1-1 draw with Celtic in the Champions League has earned him widespread praise, particularly from the Scottish media.
While Japanese forward Daizen Maeda salvaged a point for Celtic with a 60th-minute equalizer, it was Onyedika who caught the eye with his dominant presence in midfield.
The 23-year-old Super Eagles star completed 90% of his 52 passes, touched the ball 61 times, and registered one key pass, showcasing his technical precision and vision.
His defensive contributions were equally impressive, winning all four of his ground duels, making three tackles, and executing a crucial interception.
The Scottish Sun, through Voetbal Nieuws, singled out Onyedika for his exceptional display, calling him “the boss” in the middle of the park.
The report noted that although the Nigerian international is still developing, his maturity and impact on the game were evident, as he effortlessly transitioned the ball from defense to attack, dictating the flow of play for his team.
“Club Brugge had it easy everywhere, but no one more so than midfielder Raphael Onyedika.
“At 23, the Nigerian international is far from a finished product, but what a player he already is. He was the boss, took the ball from his defenders and gave small passes to the attackers in front of him.”
Onyedika’s performance has only strengthened his growing reputation as one of Europe’s most exciting young midfielders. As Club Brugge’s Champions League campaign enters its final stretch, with games remaining against Sporting Lisbon, Juventus, and Manchester City, the pressure is on for Onyedika and his teammates to secure vital points for a chance at progression to the knockout stages.
However, performances like this only add to the belief that Onyedika has the potential to make a significant mark in Europe’s elite competition.
