Nigerian goal-getter Tolu Arokodare opened his account for the new Belgian Jupiler Pro League season with a strike against OH Leuven, but it wasn’t enough to prevent Genk from suffering a 3-1 defeat.
The young forward, who bagged 12 goals last term, finally got off the mark in the 62nd minute, thanks to a clever assist from compatriot Yira Sor, Footballrover reports.
However, Arokodare’s effort was merely a consolation, as Genk were already two goals down by that point.
Genk dominated proceedings at the Den Dreef Stadium, but it was Moroccan midfielder Youssef Maziz who broke the deadlock for the home team in the 22nd minute.
Thibault Vlietinck then doubled the hosts’ lead before halftime.
Genk tried to mount a comeback after the break, but their efforts were thwarted by a disallowed goal and some resolute defending from Leuven.
Just when it seemed Arokodare’s goal might spark a dramatic turnaround, Jon Dagur Thorsteinsson sealed the deal for the home side with a late strike.
2-1 by Tolu. Let's find the equalizer! š¤ #mijnploeg pic.twitter.com/ooudsvvbDn
— KRC Genk (@KRCGenkofficial) August 3, 2024
Despite playing the full 90 minutes, Arokodare couldn’t inspire his team to a positive result.
Fellow Nigerian Chukwubuikem Ikwuemesi, who recently joined Leuven from Italy, came on as a substitute but couldn’t influence the game.
Fulltime. #mijnploeg pic.twitter.com/zcVKAvYW3n
— KRC Genk (@KRCGenkofficial) August 3, 2024
The defeat leaves Genk winless in their opening two league matches, and they currently sit in a lowly 13th position in the 16-team table.
A tough test awaits Arokodare and his teammates next Sunday when they host title contenders Club Brugge KV.
Be the first to comment on "Jupiler Pro League: Tolu Arokodare Finds Net But Genk Stumble Against OH Leuven"