Antwerp vs Dender Match Recap - Nov 23, 2025

Dender Stuns Antwerp with Late Heroics, Leaving Hosts in Despair

Dender's 2-1 victory over Antwerp marks a significant turning point for a team that had been languishing at the bottom of the Jupiler Pro League. This win not only secures Dender's first victory of the season but also highlights Antwerp's ongoing struggles, as they remain mired in the relegation zone.

Dender's recent form suggested a glimmer of hope, with two draws in their last five matches. The team had shown resilience, particularly in their 2-2 draw against Zulte Waregem, where they managed to claw back late in the game. This newfound tenacity was on full display as they capitalized on Antwerp's defensive frailties, with David Toshevski and Ragnar Oratmangoen finding the net at crucial moments. The late winner from Oratmangoen, coming just two minutes before the final whistle, underscores Dender's ability to seize opportunities when they arise.

Antwerp's performance continues to be characterized by inconsistency and missed chances. Despite dominating possession with 72% and completing 88% of their passes, they struggled to convert this control into meaningful scoring opportunities. Their expected goals (xG) of 0.03 starkly contrasts with their ball dominance, revealing a troubling trend where possession does not translate into effective attacking play. This match further emphasizes their inability to capitalize on their advantages, a theme that has plagued them throughout the season.

Boubakar Kouyaté, who scored Antwerp's lone goal, has been one of the few bright spots for the team recently. His ability to find the net against Dender was a reminder of his potential, but it was not enough to spark a comeback. The lack of support from other key players like Vincent Janssen, who has been quiet in recent outings, raises questions about Antwerp's attacking depth. With only three wins in their last fourteen matches, the pressure is mounting on coach Stef Wils to find solutions quickly.

Dender's defensive setup, employing a 5-3-2 formation, proved effective against Antwerp's attacking threats. They absorbed pressure well and were able to counter effectively, showcasing a tactical discipline that has been absent in previous matches. The backline, led by Luc Marijnissen, held firm against Antwerp's advances, allowing Dender to exploit gaps on the break. This tactical approach not only secured them a vital three points but also instilled a sense of belief that could propel them forward in upcoming fixtures.

The contrast between Dender's resurgence and Antwerp's continued decline is stark. Dender now has a foundation to build upon, while Antwerp must confront the reality of their situation. With only fourteen points from fifteen matches, they are at risk of being cut adrift as the season progresses. Their next match against Club Brugge KV will be critical; failure to secure points could deepen their crisis.

Antwerp's struggles are compounded by their inability to maintain momentum after positive results. Following a 3-1 victory over RAAL La Louvière, expectations were high, yet they faltered against St. Truiden and Club Brugge KV before this defeat. The inconsistency in performance reflects deeper issues within the squad that need addressing if they are to avoid relegation.

Dender's victory serves as a reminder that even the most beleaguered teams can find a way to triumph when it matters most. Their upcoming match against KVC Westerlo presents an opportunity to build on this momentum and potentially escape the relegation zone. For Antwerp, however, the path ahead looks increasingly treacherous unless they can rediscover their form and convert possession into points.

In summary, this match encapsulates the contrasting fortunes of both teams: Dender's hard-fought victory offers hope for revival, while Antwerp's ongoing struggles raise alarms about their future in the league. The stakes have never been higher as both teams look to navigate the challenges ahead in this unpredictable season.