Nigerian footballer Babatunde Akinsola has delivered an outstanding performance for Cercle Brugge, earning the Player of the Match award after scoring twice in the club's 2-1 victory over Royal Antwerp in the Belgian Pro League on Sunday, November 1, 2026.

The 23-year-old winger played a decisive role in ending Cercle Brugge's nine-game wait for a league victory, giving the team an important boost in their battle to move away from the relegation zone.

Following a goalless first half at the Jan Breydel Stadium, Akinsola opened the scoring in the 48th minute. He produced an impressive individual effort before sending a left-footed strike from outside the penalty area into the bottom-right corner of the net.

The Nigerian forward increased the hosts' advantage in the 61st minute, converting a close-range opportunity created by French attacker Steve Ngoura. The forward provided the assists for both goals, making his contribution particularly important to the outcome.

Royal Antwerp refused to surrender and reduced the deficit in the 81st minute through substitute Modibo Fofana. The visitors continued searching for an equaliser during the closing stages, but Cercle Brugge maintained their advantage despite eight minutes of added time.

Akinsola's contribution earned him the highest recognition of the afternoon. According to OLTA Football's match ratings, he received an impressive 8.7 score, the best rating recorded by any player in the encounter. Both of his attempts on target resulted in goals.

The victory moved Cercle Brugge from the bottom of the standings into 17th position with six points, taking them above KV Kortrijk, who have a game in hand. Meanwhile, Royal Antwerp remained 11th with 10 points.

The result represents an important breakthrough for Cercle Brugge, while Akinsola's performance further highlights his value to the Belgian side.