Club Brugge played Sint-Truidense VV without Raphael Onyedika, who missed the Jupiler Pro League playoff match due to an injury sustained in training on Friday. The Nigerian midfielder, who made 19 starts during the regular season, was expected to start after Hugo Vetlesen was ruled out, but failed to recover in time. Club Brugge confirmed the omission on social media before kickoff at the Jan Breydel Stadium, citing the training-ground injury as the reason. Manager Ivan Leko stated after the match that the issue is minor and Onyedika is likely to return before the season concludes. The 25-year-old has featured in only three playoff matches, playing a total of 47 minutes prior to this weekend's fixture. His reduced role since Vetlesen's arrival has drawn attention, especially given his previous consistency in midfield. Onyedika is entering the final year of his contract with Club Brugge, adding uncertainty to his future at the club. The absence against Sint-Truidense VV deepened questions about his current standing within the squad despite being fit for selection just hours before the match. No other African or Nigerian players were involved in the matchday squad or lineup for either team.
Onyedika's last-minute exclusion, despite Vetlesen's absence, exposes a shift in trust within Club Brugge's midfield that goes beyond fitness. His limited playing time in the playoffs, even when opportunities arise, suggests his role is diminishing despite his contract entering its final year. With only a minor injury keeping him out this time, the timing raises questions about his long-term place in the team. No Nigerian or African player featured in the matchday squads for either side.
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