Nigerian international Rafiu Durosinmi has continued to underline his growing importance for KRC Genk, producing another decisive performance in the club’s 2-0 victory against Excelsior Virton in the Belgian Cup. The clinical forward found the back of the net in the first half to seal Genk’s progression into the next round, maintaining his prolific goalscoring rhythm and winning praise for an instinctive, cheeky finish that caught everyone by surprise.
Genk entered the cup tie determined to avoid any potential banana skins against lower-tier opposition. From the opening whistle, Thorsten Fink’s side dictated the tempo and controlled possession, applying consistent pressure on Virton’s defensive block. The breakthrough arrived relatively early when Daan Heymans broke the deadlock, finishing off a well-worked attacking sequence to settle any lingering nerves and put Genk comfortably in the driving seat.
With the hosts looking to build on their advantage, Durosinmi stepped up to deliver the game’s standout moment shortly before the halftime interval. Latching onto an incisive pass in the final third, the Super Eagles striker spotted an opening that few others would have dared to exploit. Instead of taking the conventional route, Durosinmi executed an audacious, delicate finish that left the opposition goalkeeper stranded and doubled Genk’s lead.
Speaking to reporters in his post-match reaction, the Nigerian forward candidly explained the thought process behind his eye-catching strike, admitting that fortune often favors the bold in the penalty area. ‘I saw how the goalkeeper was positioned, and I knew that a normal shot might give him a chance to recover or make a save,’ Durosinmi explained. ‘I took the risk because in that split second, you have to back your instincts. Thankfully, it came off perfectly and found the back of the net. As a striker, you have to try things that defenders don’t expect.’
Durosinmi’s willingness to take calculated gambles is quickly becoming a hallmark of his play at the Cegeka Arena. Since making his mark in Belgian football, his blend of physical presence, intelligent off-the-ball movement, and clinical decision-making has made him a constant threat to opposing backlines. His partnership with Heymans and the rest of Genk’s dynamic front line was on full display throughout the contest, demonstrating an understanding that bodes well for the remainder of their campaign.
The second half saw Genk manage their two-goal cushion with professional composure. While Virton attempted to mount a late fightback, Genk’s defensive discipline ensured a clean sheet and guaranteed safe passage into the next phase of the competition. For Durosinmi, the outing served as another strong audition for extended minutes, both at the club level and on the international stage with Nigeria’s Super Eagles, where competition for attacking berths remains exceptionally fierce.
As Genk turn their attention back to their domestic league commitments, Durosinmi’s continued rise provides a massive confidence boost for the squad. If the Nigerian striker continues to trust his instincts and take high-reward risks in the final third, Genk will remain formidable contenders in both league and cup competitions this season.