Union St. Gilloise vs Gent Match Recap - Dec 6, 2025

Union St. Gilloise and Gent Share the Spoils in a Tactical Stalemate

Union St. Gilloise's inability to convert possession into goals cost them dearly against Gent, resulting in a 1-1 draw that leaves them still atop the Jupiler Pro League but with questions lingering about their finishing. Despite dominating the match statistically, Union's recent form has been inconsistent, and this draw reflects their struggle to maintain momentum after a Cup victory just days prior.

Union's Kevin Mac Allister emerged as a key figure, scoring the equalizer in the 77th minute, but it was not enough to secure all three points. The team had previously shown resilience in their Cup match against Zulte Waregem, where they controlled the game and converted chances effectively. This time, however, they faced a Gent side that, despite its own struggles, managed to hold firm defensively and capitalize on an early goal from Matisse Samoise.

Gent's performance was characterized by a solid defensive structure that frustrated Union's attempts to break through. With only 41% possession, Gent relied on counter-attacks and set pieces to create opportunities. Their early goal came from a well-executed play that caught Union off guard, showcasing Gent's ability to strike when least expected. This result is a testament to Gent's resilience, especially after their recent inconsistency, which included a heavy defeat to OH Leuven.

Union's dominance in possession (59%) and passing accuracy (88%) highlights their control over the game. They completed 270 passes compared to Gent's 182, yet the lack of clinical finishing was evident. The home side managed only two shots on target despite their overall shot advantage (5-4). This inefficiency in front of goal has been a recurring theme for Union, particularly following their loss to Anderlecht where they also struggled to convert chances despite dominating possession.

The contrasting recent forms of both teams set the stage for this encounter. Union had won three of their last five matches leading up to this fixture, while Gent had only managed two wins in the same span. The draw may feel like a setback for Union, who were looking to build on their Cup success and maintain their lead at the top of the table. For Gent, this result could serve as a confidence booster as they aim to climb back into European contention.

Wilfried Kanga, who scored in Gent's last league match against St. Truiden, was largely kept quiet in this game. His inability to impact the match reflects Gent's overall struggle to find consistency in their attacking play. The team has shown flashes of brilliance but often falters under pressure, as seen in their recent matches where they have dropped points due to defensive lapses.

The tactical battle between coaches Sébastien Pocognoli and Ivan Leko played out as expected, with both teams employing a 3-4-1-2 formation. Union's approach focused on controlling the midfield and creating width through their wing-backs, while Gent aimed to absorb pressure and hit on the break. This strategy paid off early for Gent but ultimately left them defending for large portions of the match.

Looking ahead, Union St. Gilloise will need to address their finishing issues before facing Charleroi in their next match. The pressure will be on them to convert possession into goals consistently if they wish to maintain their position at the top of the league. Meanwhile, Gent will take some solace from this draw as they prepare for a crucial match against Antwerp, hoping to build on this performance and regain some much-needed momentum.

The draw leaves Union with 36 points from 17 matches, while Gent remains in seventh place with 22 points. The gap between these two teams reflects the disparity in their seasons thus far, but this match serves as a reminder that even the best can struggle against determined opposition. As both teams look to improve in their upcoming fixtures, the lessons learned from this encounter will be vital for their respective campaigns moving forward.