Tolu Arokodare has emerged as one of the most promising and in-form strikers in European football, marking his territory in the Belgian First Division A with a remarkable performance that has seen him score eight goals and provide one assist in just twelve appearances for Genk. His remarkable tally has made him the joint leading scorer in the league for the 2024/2025 season, establishing him as a major force in a highly competitive environment. The 23-year-old forward’s journey from the streets of Festac Town in Lagos State to the spotlight of European football is both inspiring and a testament to his relentless pursuit of success on the pitch.
Arokodare’s rise to prominence has been meteoric; after making his professional debut at FC Köln and spending time in Latvia at Valmiera, his current exploits in Belgium are a reflection of his adaptability and natural goal-scoring prowess. He has started all twelve matches for Genk since the season began, showcasing his importance to the team. His season kicked off with a critical goal during a 3-1 loss to OH Leuven, which proved to be a catalyst for his impressive form. Following that, he registered a stunning brace in a thrilling 4-3 victory against Beerschot, solidifying his reputation as a forward who poses a significant challenge for defenders.
Continuing his streak of form, Arokodare found the back of the net again in Genk’s recent 2-0 triumph over Gent, demonstrating not only his scoring ability but also his consistency. This knack for finding goals has raised his profile significantly in Belgium, and beyond, as he draws comparisons to other notable Nigerian strikers like Victor Osimhen and Victor Boniface, both of whom have struggled with goal-scoring recently. Arokodare stands out as a reliable alternative for Nigeria’s national team, particularly ahead of their crucial 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers against Benin Republic and Rwanda.
Given Nigeria’s attacking struggles, Coach Austine Eguavoen would be wise to consider Arokodare for a call-up. His experience playing in grassroots football back in Nigeria has equipped him with the grit and determination necessary to excel in high-stakes international competitions. Arokodare’s average of more than half a goal per game at the club level makes him a compelling candidate to bolster Nigeria’s offensive lineup when they face daunting challenges in their upcoming matches.
Before making his mark in Europe, Arokodare honed his skills during his youth career with several academies, including Kash Academy, Flying Sports Academy, and Segun Odegbami International College and Sports Academy. His progression through these institutions has nurtured his talents and prepared him for the rigors of professional football, enhancing his fitness and perseverance on the pitch. His transition to professional football began at FC Köln, which provided him with invaluable experience in a competitive environment, further preparing him for his current role at Genk.
In summary, Tolu Arokodare’s journey from the streets of Lagos to the forefront of Belgian football encapsulates the essence of hard work and determination. His impressive goal-scoring record has not only made him a standout performer at Genk but also poised him as a crucial asset for the Nigerian national team. With opportunities to showcase his talents on the international stage approaching, Arokodare’s blend of experience and youthful exuberance could indeed add a much-needed dimension to Nigeria’s attacking prowess amidst an evolving football landscape.
