Central African Republic international shining for SK Beveren despite sides disappointing season

After missing out on promotion last season to RWDM by just a single point, many had hoped that SK Beveren would once again challenge for the title this season. However, inconsistent form has meant that the side are currently needing a minor miracle to even make the play-offs. After a 5-1 defeat to RFC Liege, Wim De Decker was given the sack. In the sides first game without him, they managed a 2-1 win over Anderlecht Futures.

Part of their promotion push last year was spearheaded by the form of striker Thierno Barry. The imposing striker scored 20 goals in 33 games for the club, earning a move to Swiss side FC Basel. This led to questions about where the goals would come from this season.

In the summer the side brought in Goduine Koyalipou on a free transfer after the striker left Lausanne-Sport. The 24-year-old, who had played within the French youth system, has since switched his allegiances to the Central African Republic (CAR). The CAR national team will certainly be enjoying what he has done in the Challenger Pro League this season. In 28 games so far this season, the striker has scored 15 goals and filled the boots left by Barry. He is averaging a goal every 132 minutes in the league.

With the side looking set to miss out on promotion again, Koyalipou will certainly be attracting interest from elsewhere. The club managed to sign him to a contract through to the end of the 2025/2026 season with the option for an extra year. Beveren fans will be hoping that he remains for at least next season to help the side finally return to the Pro League.