KRC Genk coach Jess Thorup has praised Super Eagles striker Rafiu Durosinmi after the Nigerian marked his competitive debut with a goal in Sunday’s 2-1 defeat to Zulte Waregem, PUNCH Sports Extra reports.

“Ito’s left-footed cross was also top-notch. But there you could see the qualities on which Durosinmi was scouted and signed,” Thorup said, according to Voetbalnieuws.

Durosinmi opened the scoring in the 39th minute of Genk’s opening game of the 2026/27 Belgian Pro League season, rising to head in Junya Ito’s cross and give his side the lead.

However, Genk were unable to hold on as Marley Aké equalised in the 82nd minute before Serxho Ujka completed Zulte Waregem’s comeback four minutes later.

Despite the defeat, Thorup identified Durosinmi’s performance as one of the positives from the game, with the striker offering an early glimpse of why Genk made him their record signing.

The 23-year-old joined Genk from Pisa on a four-year contract until June 2030, with the Belgian club reportedly paying €10.5m for his services.

Durosinmi previously impressed at Viktoria Plzeň, scoring 35 goals and providing 10 assists in 86 appearances for the Czech club before his move to Pisa.

Genk had been searching for a long-term replacement for former Nigerian striker Tolu Arokodare, and will now hope Durosinmi can build on his promising debut and repay their record investment with goals.