Super Eagles midfielder Raphael Onyedika was on target as Club Brugge thumped Monaco 4-1 in their UEFA Champions League opener at the Jan Breydelstadion on Thursday night, www.aclsports.com reports.
Brugge, who came into the fixture on the back of a winless run in their previous two matches, raced to a 3-0 lead at half-time. Goals from Nicolo Tresoldi, Onyedika, and Hans Vanaken set the tone for the win. Mamadou Diakhon added a fourth after the break, but Monaco got a consolation goal through Ansu Fati late on.
The game started on a quick note as Monaco were awarded a penalty when Simon Mignolet fouled Mika Biereth inside the box, but the former Liverpool goalkeeper redeemed himself by stopping Maghnes Akliouche’s penalty. However, Mignolet was replaced by Nordin Jackers due to injury.
After the little setback, the home side went in front through Nicolo Tresoldi with a fine finish just after the half-hour mark. Raphael Onyedika then doubled the lead nine minutes later after pouncing on a cross after the Ligue 1 side failed to clear their lines from a corner. Just before halftime, skipper Vanaken made it 3-0 to put the Belgian outfit in the driving seat.
The French outfit turned to their bench in search of inspiration, bringing on several fresh legs, including Nigerian-eligible striker George Illenikhena. However, it was Club Brugge who extended their dominance, with Mamadou Diakhon netting a fourth in the 75th minute.
In stoppage time, Monaco grabbed a late consolation through Ansu Fati, but it was the home side who ran out winners on match day one. Apart from the goal, Onyedika also delivered a strong performance to help his side kick off their European campaign on a strong note.
Onyedika and Brugge will host Sint-Truidense V.V. in their next league action on Sunday, and will face Ademola Lookman’s Atalanta in their next Champions League outing on September 30th.
