Genk coach praises Durosinmi after debut goal

KRC Genk coach Jess Thorup lauded Nigerian striker Rafiu Durosinmi after the player scored on his competitive debut, despite the team's 2-1 loss to Zulte Waregem. Durosinmi's goal in the 39th minute, a header from Junya Ito's cross, gave Genk an early lead in their opening match of the 2026/27 Belgian Pro League season.

"Ito’s left-footed cross was also top-notch. But there you could see the qualities on which Durosinmi was scouted and signed," Thorup commented, highlighting the striker's abilities. Although Genk ultimately succumbed to a late comeback by Zulte Waregem, Durosinmi's performance was identified as a significant positive, offering a glimpse of his potential.

Durosinmi, 23, joined Genk from Pisa on a four-year contract, reportedly for a club-record fee of €10.5 million. The Belgian club sought a long-term replacement for former striker Tolu Arokodare and will be looking for Durosinmi to build on his promising debut and justify the substantial investment. Durosinmi previously had a successful stint at Viktoria Plzeň, where he scored 35 goals in 86 appearances.

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Ito’s left-footed cross was also top-notch. But there you could see the qualities on which Durosinmi was scouted and signed.