Published
2026-02-05
Union draw in first leg of the Croky Cup semi-final
Our Unionists were unable to go beyond a goalless draw in the first leg of the Croky Cup semi-final against Sporting Charleroi. The ticket to the final will be decided next week after the return leg at the Dudenpark. Our goalkeeper Kjell Scherpen and key player Anan Khalaili were both forced off through injury.
The match got off to a lively start from our Unionists. The ball was immediately played forward, leading to a small chance for Khalaili, but his shot flew into the stands. Charleroi were also alert from the outset. At the other end, Burgess had to intervene to clear a cross and Scherpen then tipped the ball away for a corner. After a good quarter of an hour, Charleroi created their first chance, but Schleidler pushed his effort wide.
After twenty minutes, concern grew around our goalkeeper Scherpen. After previously indicating discomfort, he was eventually forced to ask for a substitution due to a groin issue. Goalkeeper Vic Chambaere then came on to defend our goal.
In the 25th minute came the first real big chance of the match. Following a fine passing move, Van de Perre sent Khalaili through on goal. He laid the ball off neatly for Promise David, but his shot went straight at goalkeeper Delavallée. Five minutes later, there was also a big chance at the other end. Pflücke took a shot, but Chambaere was alert and produced a fine save to keep the ball out.
In the 36th minute, our Unionists had another clear opportunity. David found Van de Perre with a backheel, but his shot towards the far corner struck the post. At the other end, Chambaere once again showed his quality by coming out well to deny Guiagon. The teams went into the break with the score level at 0-0.
The second half began with an attack from Promise David, but without success. Charleroi also pushed forward, delivering two dangerous crosses, though neither led to a breakthrough.
In the 73rd minute, we witnessed a moment we would rather not have seen. Anan Khalaili had to be carried off the pitch on a stretcher after a heavy blow to the foot, with Fedde Leysen coming on as his replacement.
After a final missed chance from Rob Schoofs, the match ended in a 0-0 draw. Everything will therefore be decided at the Dudenpark. The ticket to the final will be awarded there next Wednesday. Tickets are available via ticketing.rusg.brussels.