Hoogstraten VV produced a ruthless away performance to thrash Zelzate 4-1 in the Belgian First Amateur Division on October 11, 2026. The visitors scored three goals in a devastating first-half display and never looked back, handing Zelzate their heaviest home defeat of the season.

Match Overview

Hoogstraten VV took the lead in the 8th minute through Bram Verhoeven, who finished off a slick counter-attack. The lead was doubled in the 22nd minute when Jeroen Peeters tapped in from close range. Zelzate briefly threatened when Dries Maes pulled one back in the 35th minute, but any hopes of a comeback were extinguished just before half-time as Verhoeven grabbed his second. A fourth goal in the 78th minute from substitute Stijn De Wilde completed the rout.

Key Moments

• 8' – Goal (Hoogstraten): Bram Verhoeven slots home after a rapid break.
• 22' – Goal (Hoogstraten): Jeroen Peeters doubles the lead from a low cross.
• 35' – Goal (Zelzate): Dries Maes gives the home fans brief hope with a fine header.
• 44' – Goal (Hoogstraten): Verhoeven restores the two-goal cushion with a powerful strike.
• 78' – Goal (Hoogstraten): Stijn De Wilde rounds off a flowing team move.

Tactical Story

Hoogstraten VV set up in a 4-3-3 and pressed Zelzate relentlessly, forcing numerous turnovers in dangerous areas. Zelzate's 4-4-2 was overrun in midfield, and their defense struggled with the pace of Hoogstraten's front three. The home side's only bright spot was their goal, but they were otherwise second-best all over the pitch. Hoogstraten's manager will be delighted with the clinical nature of his team's finishing.

Standout Players

Bram Verhoeven (Hoogstraten VV): Scored twice and terrorized the Zelzate defense all afternoon. Jeroen Peeters (Hoogstraten VV): Added a goal and an assist, controlling the midfield. Dries Maes (Zelzate): The lone bright spark for the home side, taking his goal well.

Season and Table Impact

Hoogstraten VV climb to fifth place with 24 points from 13 matches, firmly in the race for a promotion playoff spot. Zelzate remain in 15th place on 10 points, just two points above the relegation zone. The heavy defeat will damage their goal difference and confidence.

What’s Next

Hoogstraten VV host KFC Turnhout next Saturday, while Zelzate face a crucial relegation six-pointer away at Racing Mechelen.