Published
2025-04-01
Union starts the play-offs unleashed with five goals and three points
A Saturday night in a packed Marien Stadium with a strong Union and an impressive 5-1 victory against Antwerp. A great evening where Union took revenge for the cup elimination, but we must keep our feet on the ground. Up next: Gent on Saturday at the Planet Group Arena.
Union started at full throttle, and Khalaili took advantage to make it 1-0 after just three minutes. Machida headed a Boufal corner back into the box, and our winger slotted it home at the far post.
The pace remained high. Aït El Hadj, who replaced an injured Boufal, deflected the ball to Promise David, who launched into a blistering run. His direct opponent tore Tobi’s shirt off his back, but Tobi was unstoppable and kept going. 2-0 within 15 minutes, and the Duden Park was rocking.
Antwerp then threatened. Balikwisha had a goal disallowed, but soon after, Kerk pulled one back to make it 2-1. Union had to catch its breath—and did.
Machida sent Niang through, and Bozhinov, already on a yellow for his foul on Promise David earlier, made a reckless challenge, conceding a penalty. Red card for the young Antwerp defender. Franjo Ivanovic stepped up and coolly slotted the penalty down the middle. 3-1.
Saint-Gilles in control at half-time. The second half was more composed. Machida extended the lead to 4-1, and Ivanovic finished beautifully for 5-1, set up by substitute Castro-Montes.
A perfect start for Union. But nothing is won yet! Up next: Gent, followed by Anderlecht at the Marien Stadium. Then, a crucial four-game stretch against leaders Genk and second-placed Club Brugge. Get ready for the rollercoaster!