Zulte Waregem vs Genk Match Recap - Jan 17, 2026

Zulte Waregem Stuns Genk with Late Comeback Victory

Zulte Waregem's 2-1 victory over Genk marks a significant turning point for a team that had been struggling to find its footing. After a series of disappointing results, this win not only boosts their confidence but also highlights the resilience of players like Marley Aké and Wilguens Paugain, who played pivotal roles in the comeback.

Zulte Waregem's recent form had been dismal, with five matches yielding only one point prior to this clash. The pressure was palpable, yet they managed to flip the script against Genk, who themselves were reeling from a string of poor performances. This match showcased Zulte's ability to capitalize on their possession, which has been a hallmark of their play despite previous failures to convert chances into goals. They dominated ball possession with 91% against Genk's 9%, a staggering statistic that underscores their control throughout the match.

The tactical setup employed by Sven Vandenbroeck proved effective as Zulte Waregem utilized a 3-4-3 formation that allowed them to press high and maintain control in midfield. This strategy paid off as they outperformed Genk in passing accuracy, completing 100% of their passes compared to Genk's 0%. Such dominance in passing not only reflects their tactical discipline but also their ability to exploit Genk's defensive frailties.

Genk, on the other hand, has been plagued by inconsistency, particularly in defense. Their recent matches have seen them concede goals at an alarming rate, including a staggering 5-3 loss to Club Brugge just weeks prior. This match continued that trend, as they struggled to cope with Zulte's relentless attacking pressure. Despite scoring first through Aaron Bibout, Genk failed to maintain their lead, showcasing a lack of composure under pressure.

The late surge from Zulte Waregem was emblematic of their fighting spirit. After falling behind, they responded quickly with goals from Aké and Paugain, both of whom have been crucial in recent matches. Aké's performance was particularly noteworthy; he has been a consistent threat and his ability to find space in the box proved decisive. Paugain's late goal not only secured the win but also highlighted the depth of talent within the squad, suggesting that Zulte may be turning a corner.

This victory has significant implications for both teams in the standings. Zulte Waregem climbs to 12th place with 23 points, while Genk remains in 9th place with 25 points. The gap between them is narrow, but this match could serve as a catalyst for Zulte's resurgence as they look to build momentum heading into their next fixture against Club Brugge KV.

For Genk, the loss raises questions about their defensive organization and overall team morale. With upcoming matches against teams like Cercle Brugge, they must address these issues quickly or risk slipping further down the table. The inconsistency in their performances suggests that they may need to reassess their tactical approach if they hope to regain form.

The contrasting narratives of these two teams highlight the unpredictable nature of football. Zulte Waregem's triumph serves as a reminder that even amidst adversity, determination and tactical execution can lead to success. For Genk, this defeat is a wake-up call; they must find a way to stabilize their performances or face the consequences of falling further behind in the league standings.

As both teams prepare for their next challenges, Zulte Waregem will aim to build on this victory while Genk must regroup and refocus. The stakes remain high in the Jupiler Pro League, and every point will be crucial as the season progresses.