Rafiu Durosinmi’s fast start at KRC Genk has earned praise in Belgium, but his biggest compliment may have come from a teammate who has to defend him in training, Footynaija reports.
The former Viktoria Plzen forward has been a handful for opponents in the Pro League and even for his teammates in training.
“I love being on the team with him, but I hate him in training when I have to defend against him,” Josué Kongolo told Het Nieuwsblad.
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“Especially in the air, it’s pointless. Then I push him aside with both hands. That’s possible in training.”
Durosinmi has given Genk plenty to enjoy since his €10.5m move from Pisa in July. The 23-year-old Nigeria striker has scored five goals in his first six Jupiler Pro League games and sits top of the league’s scoring chart.
His latest goal came on Sunday, when he headed Genk level against Gent just three minutes into the second half. Gent had taken the lead through Momodou Sonko after 10 minutes, but Durosinmi’s 48th-minute header helped Genk earn a 1-1 draw at the Cegeka Arena. He was substituted in the 87th minute.
The goal also showed why Genk paid a club-record fee for the Nigerian. He had already scored against Zulte Waregem, Westerlo, Antwerp and Beveren before drawing a blank in the 0-0 away game against Anderlecht.
Genk manager Jess Thorup believes there is more to come.
“He makes the difference mainly with his timing. Even more so than with his height,” notes his manager Jess Thorup.
“He can also do more than just head and score. We are also going to see assists from him because he knows how to set up the ball for others.”
Durosinmi signed until June 2030 after spells with Karvina, Viktoria Plzen and Pisa. He also has three Super Eagles caps, earned during Nigeria’s 2026 Unity Cup campaign and the friendly against Poland.
His form comes as Nigeria prepare for their September AFCON 2027 qualifiers. With Victor Osimhen’s fitness still a major concern, Durosinmi’s goals are giving Eric Chelle another reason to consider his options in attack.
Genk have only eight points from six league games and sit ninth, so Durosinmi’s goals are already carrying extra weight. Their next league test is away to Club Brugge, who have 15 points.
