'For me, it was Onyedika' – Former Gent coach challenges UEFA's Player of the Match decision

Former KAA Gent coach Hein Vanhaezebrouck disagreed with UEFA’s decision to name Hans Vanaken Player of the Match in Club Brugge's Champions League clash with AS Monaco on Thursday, September 18.

Club Brugge thrashed the Principality side 4-1, with the Nigeria international getting on the scoresheet in the 39th minute.

Shortly after the contest at Jan Breydel Stadium, UEFA Technical Observer Group announced Hans Vanaken as Player of the Match, highlighting his goal, assist, leadership qualities, and his influence in controlling the midfield both in and out of possession.

However, Vanhaezebrouck insisted that Onyedika, rather than Vanaken, should have been named the best player. 

"Vanaken certainly deserves that, but for me, it was Onyedika. He was fantastic.," Vanhaezebrouck told Het Nieuwsblad.

"Onyedika wasn't given any space, but he always managed to get free. Everything started with him, and he always opted for verticality."

Club Brugge marked their UEFA Champions League opener in style with an emphatic win over Monaco but Onyedika's angry reaction to being substituted in the 81st minute marred the celebrations.

Frustrated at being substituted, the Super Eagles midfielder headed to the bench without shaking the hand of Lynnt Audoor, who replaced him. 

Reacting to the incident, Vanhaezebrouck felt the Nigerian's substitution could have been dealt with in a better manner.

"It's a shame about that substitution. The fact that he didn't greet Audoor came across badly. 

“But that could have been avoided by telling him just before his substitution that it would be a standoff.”

Onyedika has started nine of Club Brugge’s 12 games this season, contributing a goal and an assist.

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