Toluwalase Arokodare scored his 15th goal of the season but couldn’t prevent Genk from falling to a 2-1 defeat against Club Brugge in the first leg of the Belgian Cup semifinal.
Facing a Club Brugge side on a remarkable 16-game unbeaten streak and boasting an exceptional home record—last losing at home in September to Gent—Genk had their work cut out for them.
Genk made a bright start, with Arokodare clinically finishing a pinpoint cross from Jarne Steuckers to give his side an early lead.
However, Brugge quickly equalized in the 34th minute as Joel Ordonez powered a header into the net from a well-taken corner.
The hosts intensified their attack, eventually securing the winner in the 74th minute through Christos Tzolis, who calmly converted a penalty.
Genk pressed for a late equalizer, bringing on fresh substitutes, but Brugge’s solid defense held firm, ensuring a crucial advantage ahead of the second leg.
Despite the result, Arokodare’s goal brought his season tally to 15, matching his total from last season in significantly fewer games, underlining his exceptional form.
Genk will aim to rebound from this setback when they visit KV Mechelen for their next match on Saturday.
