On a cool Saturday night in Charleroi, 19-year-old Ghanaian striker Joseph Opoku announced himself to Belgian top-flight football. The Ghana U20 forward netted his first Belgian Pro League goal to spark Zulte Waregem’s spirited 2-1 comeback against Sporting Charleroi.

The hosts struck first after 15 minutes when German midfielder Patrick Pflücke latched onto an Etienne Camara pass to put Charleroi ahead. But the match tilted nine minutes later when Syrian defender Aiham Ousou received a straight red card, giving the newly promoted visitors a crucial numerical edge.

Opoku, who has quietly impressed since the start of the season, seized the moment in the 62nd minute. Timing his run to perfection, he buried a composed finish to bring Waregem level and ignite the away supporters. His movement and energy continued to trouble the ten-man hosts until he was substituted in the 77th minute, his night’s work complete.

With momentum firmly on their side, Zulte Waregem pressed for a winner. Deep into stoppage time, veteran forward Jelle Van Vossen pounced on a clever assist from Nigerian striker Anosike Ementa to complete the turnaround and seal all three points.

For Opoku, it was a milestone evening: his first top-flight goal in just eight appearances, adding to a growing tally that already includes three assists. His compatriot Raymond Asante watched from the Charleroi bench, but all eyes were on Opoku as the Black Satellites prospect celebrated a breakthrough moment in Belgium.