Union Saint-Gilloise etched their names back into Belgian football history on Thursday, ending a staggering 110-year wait to lift the Belgian Cup. Their 1-0 victory over Royal Antwerp in the Brussels final marked a night of pure elation for the club and its passionate fans.
Machida’s Moment of Magic Seals the Deal
The hero of the night was Japanese defender Koki Machida. Just as the first half drew to a close, a corner kick provided the golden opportunity. A flick found Machida perfectly positioned, and he reacted with a decisive stab, sending the ball past the Antwerp goalkeeper to erupt the Union faithful in joyous celebration.
Antwerp’s Double Dream Dashed
Royal Antwerp, the reigning champions who achieved the domestic league and cup double last season, entered the final determined to repeat the feat. However, their ambitions were thwarted by Union’s resolute defence and a touch of bad luck.
Flares Briefly Interrupt the Second Half
The second half began with a tense atmosphere. Antwerp supporters’ use of flares forced the referee to intervene through the stadium announcer. A stern warning was issued – if the disruptive behaviour persisted, the players would be taken off the field. Thankfully, the match resumed without further interruption.
Missed Opportunities on Both Sides
The remaining minutes of the game were a nail-biting affair. Antwerp’s Jurgen Ekkelenkamp had a golden chance to equalize in the final ten minutes, but his shot flew agonizingly wide after a scramble in the Union penalty area. Union, on the other hand, nearly doubled their lead in stoppage time. Mohamed Amoura found himself with only the goalkeeper to beat on a swift counter-attack, but his shot lacked precision and went wide.
Union’s Resurgence Continues
This historic victory signifies a remarkable turnaround for Union Saint-Gilloise. After decades of languishing in the shadows, the club has experienced a dramatic resurgence over the past three seasons. They are currently in contention for the league title as well – a feat last achieved in 1935. Their triumph in the Belgian Cup is a testament to their unwavering determination and a new chapter in their rich history.
