Dender vs Olympic Charleroi Match Recap - Oct 28, 2025

In a thrilling contest that ebbed and flowed at the Dender Football Complex on October 28, Dender and Olympic Charleroi played to a dramatic 2-2 draw after extra time in the Round of 32 of the Cup (Belgium). Both teams exhibited resilience, but it was Dender who showcased their grit, equalizing not once, but twice to force a penalty shootout, with hopes of revitalizing their season.

The match's early momentum favored Olympic Charleroi, as they found the back of the net first in the 22nd minute through V. Corneillie. This goal was quickly followed by an added strike just three minutes into the second half, putting Dender in a precarious position, trailing 2-0. Already struggling in league play, having managed only two draws from their last five outings, the stakes could not have been higher for Dender.

However, hope arrived in the form of Bruny Nsimba, who pulled one back for the home side in the 56th minute. His goal electrified the crowd and breathed life into a Dender team that had previously appeared disheartened. As the clock wound down, it was the tenacity of Jordan Attah Kadiri that stole the show, equalizing in dramatic fashion with a goal in the 90th minute. The stadium erupted as he made a desperate last-ditch play, proving that fortune can favor the bold.

Extra time saw Dender take control, and just six minutes in, Desmond Acquah showcased his skills to give Dender a 3-2 lead, further igniting their fervent supporters. Yet, Kadiri was not done, scoring again just five minutes later, seemingly setting Dender up for a stunning victory. The match took a turn in the 68th minute when an Olympic Charleroi player received a red card, leaving the visitors down to ten men as they struggled to keep pace with Dender's newfound vigor.

Despite the frenetic pace and Dender's late charges, Olympic Charleroi leveled the score once more through an unknown player just before the end of extra time, still keeping their hopes alive. This match was more than a cup tie; it was a test of character for both teams, who have found themselves mired in underwhelming league performances, each sitting low in their respective standings.

With both teams now looking ahead, the penalties will favor the team that can harness today's adrenaline. For Dender, this match could serve as the spark needed to reignite their flagging season, while Olympic Charleroi will need to reassess their strategy if they are to turn their fortunes around in the league. The coming weeks loom large as both teams strive to escape their respective slumps.