Super Eagles midfielder Raphael Onyedika has earned recognition as one of the Champions League top 50 tacklers, establishing himself as a dominant force in midfield for Club Brugge. The Nigerian star ranked 20th among the best tacklers in the competition this season, surpassing several high-profile players from clubs like Paris Saint-Germain, Liverpool, Bayern Munich, and Atlético Madrid.
Onyedika’s Impressive Tackling Stats in the Champions League
According to a report by Euro Football Rumours, Onyedika registered 23 completed tackles before Club Brugge’s Champions League campaign ended at the hands of Aston Villa in the round of 16. His tackling prowess places him alongside other midfield workhorses, including:
- Dimitri Lavalée (Sturm Graz)
- Morten Hjulmand (Sporting CP)
- Timi Elsnik (FK Crvena Zvezda)
- Vanderson (Monaco)
Despite Club Brugge’s exit from the tournament, Onyedika outperformed several world-class players in the tackling department, including:
- Ryan Gravenberch (Liverpool) – 22 tackles
- Eduardo Camavinga (Real Madrid) – 21 tackles
- Jamal Musiala (Bayern Munich) – 21 tackles
- Marquinhos (PSG captain) – 21 tackles
- Marcos Llorente (Atlético Madrid) – 20 tackles
At the very top of the Champions League top 50 tacklers leaderboard is João Neves (PSG), who completed 40 successful tackles. He is followed closely by:
- Florentino (Benfica) – 38 tackles
- Tomás Araújo (Benfica) – 38 tackles
- Marc Casadó (Barcelona) – 33 tackles
- Nuno Mendes (PSG) – 33 tackles
Onyedika’s Key Role in Club Brugge’s Champions League Campaign
Onyedika played a crucial role in Club Brugge’s journey through the Champions League, featuring prominently as the Belgian side advanced beyond the group stage. His defensive contributions and combative midfield play were instrumental in keeping Brugge competitive on the European stage.
The 23-year-old midfielder made 11 appearances in the tournament, accumulating 940 minutes on the pitch. While his primary role was breaking up opposition attacks, Onyedika also made attacking contributions, scoring one goal and providing one assist during the campaign.
- Assist: Brugge’s 1-0 group-stage victory over Sturm Graz
- Goal: In Brugge’s 3-1 defeat to Manchester City
One of his most influential performances came against Atalanta in the intermediate playoff stage. Onyedika played every minute of both legs, helping Club Brugge secure a 5-2 aggregate victory over the Italian side.
Unfortunately, Brugge’s remarkable run ended in the round of 16, where they suffered a 6-1 aggregate defeat to Aston Villa. Despite the disappointing exit, Onyedika’s performances throughout the competition cemented his status as one of the Champions League top 50 tacklers.
Onyedika’s Domestic Form and Club Brugge’s Title Race
Beyond his European heroics, Onyedika continues to be a key figure for Club Brugge in the Belgian Pro League. As the reigning champions enter the Championship Round, Brugge currently sits four points behind league leaders Genk.
The upcoming clash against Anderlecht this weekend will be crucial for Onyedika and his teammates as they aim to close the gap and secure a return to next season’s Champions League. Meanwhile, Genk faces a tricky test against KAA Gent, adding further intrigue to the Belgian title race.
Onyedika’s Bright Future
With his strong defensive performances, ability to win tackles, and growing influence, Onyedika has solidified himself as a top defensive midfielder in European football. His ranking among the Champions League top 50 tacklers highlights his ability to compete at the highest level, and if he continues to shine, bigger clubs across Europe may soon come calling.
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As Club Brugge fights for domestic glory and Onyedika maintains his strong performances in midfield, the Super Eagles star’s future looks incredibly promising. Whether in Belgium or at a bigger European club, his name is one to watch in the seasons to come.
