Super Eagles midfielder Raphael Onyedika has expressed his determination to see Club Brugge achieve more than just participation in this season's UEFA Champions League, Nigerisoccernet.com writes.
Speaking about the team's ambitions, Onyedika emphasized that they aim to challenge for the title, building on their recent performances in Europe's elite competition.
The Nigerian international featured prominently in Club Brugge's 1-1 draw against Scottish champions Celtic on Wednesday, a result that keeps them in contention for progression. Currently 22nd in the overall standings with seven points from five games, Club Brugge remains just three points shy of breaking into the top eight. Their next challenge comes against Sporting Lisbon, where they hope to strengthen their position.
Onyedika’s Champions League Aspirations
Reflecting on his experiences, Onyedika highlighted the significance of the competition. "Playing in the Champions League is like a dream come true," he remarked, noting the prestige of competing against Europe’s best teams and players. Despite setbacks, such as his red card against AC Milan, he remains optimistic. "Sometimes, these things are beyond your control, but playing in the Champions League is one of my proudest moments," he added.
The Nigerian midfielder also drew comparisons with last season, where Club Brugge reached the knockout stages before falling to Portuguese giants Benfica. "We are not just here to participate. We want to make history and go as far as we can," he told the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF).
Challenges and Expectations
Club Brugge's current Champions League campaign mirrors their resilience and ambition. With Onyedika as a central figure in their midfield, the Belgian outfit aims to surpass their achievements from last season. The upcoming fixture against Sporting Lisbon will be crucial in determining their chances of advancing further in the competition.
As Onyedika and his teammates set their sights on rewriting history, the Nigerian star’s aspirations reflect the growing influence of African players on the global stage.
Oluwayemi Omolagba