'With a very big smile' - Genk coach reveals Arokodare's mood after Super Eagles debut

Racing Genk coach Thorsten Fink has confirmed that Tolu Arokodare has returned to Belgium after international duty with the Super Eagles in their recent 2026 World Cup qualifying matches against Rwanda's Wasps and Zimbabwe's Warriors.

Arokodare made his senior debut off the bench against Rwanda, playing the last thirteen minutes of a 2-0 win in Kigali last week Friday and was given half an hour during the disappointing 1-1 draw with Zimbabwe in Uyo on Tuesday, March 25.

The 24-year-old did not get on the scoresheet in both games, though he played a role in Nigeria's goal against the Warriors by passing the ball to Ola Aina, who delivered the cross that Victor Osimhen finished in the 74th minute.

This season, the young striker has been in fine form for Racing Genk, and his recent international recognition is seen as a testament to his progress and hard work.

In 35 games across all competitions, Arokodare has tallied nineteen goals while producing seven assists.

According to Fink, the newly capped Super Eagles striker arrived at training with a broad smile, clearly elated by his national team experience.

"I have a very good feeling about the training on Friday morning," Fink told Het Belang van Limburg (subscription required). 

"Tolu Arokodare returned from Nigeria on Thursday but was already on the field with a very big smile.

"The same applied to Bryan Heynen and Kos Karetsas. We want to take those good vibes with us to the match against KAA Gent."

Arokodare will now shift his focus back to club football, aiming to maintain his impressive form and contribute to Genk’s push for the Jupiler Pro League title.

Racing Genk finished at the top of the table in the regular season, accumulating 68 points from 30 matches.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel 

Copyright ANS
All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from allnigeriasoccer.com