Royal Antwerp kicked off their 2026-27 Belgian Pro League campaign in winning fashion, edging SK Beveren 2-1 in a tense derby-like clash at the Bosuilstadion on Monday, 10 August 2026. The hosts had to dig deep after falling behind midway through the first half, but two second-half goals secured a valuable three points to open their season.

Match Overview

Antwerp dominated possession from the outset, but Beveren threatened on the counter and took a shock lead with a clinical finish shortly before the half-hour mark. The home side responded with increased intensity after the break, and their persistence was rewarded with two goals in the space of fifteen minutes. The visitors pushed for an equalizer in the closing stages, but Antwerp’s defense held firm.

Key Moments

• 28' – Beveren strike first: A swift breakaway down the right wing caught Antwerp’s high line off guard, and the Beveren forward slotted calmly past the keeper.
• 58' – Antwerp level: A cleverly worked corner routine ended with a towering header at the near post to make it 1-1.
• 73' – Winner found: A deflected shot from the edge of the box sparked a scramble in the Beveren area, and an Antwerp midfielder pounced to fire home the decisive second.

Tactical Story

Antwerp head coach set his team up in a fluid 4-3-3 system, full-backs pushing high and the front three interchanging positions. Beveren, meanwhile, sat deep in a compact 4-4-1-1 and looked to exploit space in behind. While that game plan worked early on, the visitors struggled to maintain the press in the second half, allowing Antwerp to build sustained pressure and eventually break them down.

Standout Performers

Antwerp’s midfield pivot was the engine of the comeback, covering ground defensively and launching quick transitions. The wingers also caused constant problems with their direct running, while the substitute who assisted the winner had an immediate impact. For Beveren, the veteran goalkeeper made several sharp saves to keep his side in contention until the final whistle.

Table Impact and What’s Next

The victory places Antwerp on three points after the opening matchday of the Belgian Pro League season, jointly top of the early table with a positive goal difference. Beveren will take heart from their competitive showing but must address a familiar issue of defending deep leads as they return to the Bosuilstadion later in the campaign.

Both teams now shift focus to the next round of league fixtures, where Antwerp travel across the country looking to build early momentum, while Beveren aim to bounce back at home and record their first win of the new season.