Tienen came from behind to secure a thrilling 3-2 victory over FC ATO in a Belgian third-division encounter (BEL At C) on 26 July 2026. The match at the Julien Bergé Stadium in Tienen saw five goals, a red card, and dramatic late drama as the home side snatched all three points deep into stoppage time.

Match Overview

This was a crucial early-season fixture in the Belgian National Division 1 (third tier), with both teams looking to establish momentum. Tienen, a historic club in Flemish Brabant, entered the match after a mixed start, while FC ATO (based near Brussels) were unbeaten in their last two games. The clash lived up to its billing, delivering end-to-end action and a finale that sent the home fans into raptures.

First Half: Fast Start and a Red Card

The match exploded into life inside the first 10 minutes. FC ATO took the lead through a well-worked free-kick routine, with midfielder Jordi Van Hove volleying home from 12 yards. Tienen responded almost immediately – in the 14th minute, striker Arne Peeters equalised with a close-range header from a corner. The game was wide open.

In the 28th minute, the match took a turn. Tienen's centre-back picked up a second yellow card for a reckless challenge, reducing his team to 10 men. Despite the numerical disadvantage, Tienen continued to attack. FC ATO capitalised just before half-time: Vincent Mertens latched onto a through ball and fired past the Tienen goalkeeper to make it 2-1 to the visitors at the break.

Second Half: Tienen’s Resilience

Trailing and a man down, Tienen showed remarkable spirit. Coach Geert Vanfraechem reorganised his team into a compact 4-4-1 formation, relying on counter-attacks. FC ATO had chances to put the game to bed but missed several clear opportunities – the Tienen goalkeeper made two excellent saves.

In the 72nd minute, the home side levelled. Substitute Jens De Wit found space at the far post and headed in a cross from a free kick, making it 2-2. The goal ignited the crowd and visibly shook FC ATO. With both teams pushing for a winner, the game became stretched.

Late Drama: Winner in Stoppage Time

Just when it seemed the match would end 2-2, Tienen snatched victory in the 94th minute. A long throw into the box was not cleared, and the ball fell to midfielder Bram Van den Broeck, who smashed it into the roof of the net from 10 yards. The stadium erupted as Tienen completed a remarkable comeback to win 3-2.

Tactical Analysis

Tienen’s organisation after the red card was outstanding. They shifted from a 4-3-3 to a 4-4-1 and relied on set pieces – both their second and third goals came from dead-ball situations. FC ATO, by contrast, struggled to exploit their man advantage. They became too cautious in the second half, allowing Tienen to stay in the game. Missing chances proved costly.

Standout Players

• Bram Van den Broeck (Tienen) – Scored the dramatic winner and worked tirelessly in midfield.
• Arne Peeters (Tienen) – Constant threat; scored the equaliser and contributed to the build-up play.
• Jordi Van Hove (FC ATO) – Scored a fine goal and was involved in most of ATO's attacking moves.

Season Implications

The win lifts Tienen into the top half of the BEL At C table, while FC ATO will rue a missed opportunity to climb. With 10 men, Tienen showed the kind of resilience that could define their season. For FC ATO, the defeat highlights a need for greater composure when leading away from home. Both teams have plenty of football left in a competitive division.