In an entertaining International Club Friendly held on July 21, 2026, Belgian Pro League side KAS Eupen and Saudi Arabian outfit Al Taawoun played out a 2-2 draw. The match, played at Eupen’s Kehrweg Stadium, served as valuable preseason preparation for both teams, offering fans a glimpse of new signings and tactical approaches ahead of their respective domestic campaigns.

First Half Action

Al Taawoun started brightly, pressing high and forcing errors from the home side’s backline. Their early dominance paid off in the 12th minute when a swift passing move split the Eupen defense, allowing their striker to slot home from close range. The visitors continued to threaten, but Eupen grew into the game and equalized just before the half-hour mark. A looping cross from the right found an unmarked Eupen forward, who headed past the Al Taawoun goalkeeper to make it 1-1.

The tempo remained high, and Al Taawoun regained the lead in the 38th minute. A well-struck free kick from 25 yards found the top corner, leaving the Eupen keeper with no chance. The first half ended 2-1 to the visitors, who looked sharper in possession and transition.

Second Half Adjustments

KAS Eupen made several substitutions at the break, introducing fresh legs and a more aggressive pressing system. The changes paid off in the 58th minute when a defensive slip allowed Eupen’s substitute striker to pounce on a loose ball and slot home the equalizer. The goal sparked a period of sustained pressure from the home side, who came close to taking the lead on multiple occasions.

Al Taawoun, though, weathered the storm and nearly stole the win late on when a counter-attack ended with a shot that rattled the post. The match finished 2-2, a fair result that reflected the competitive nature of both squads.

Tactical Observations

• KAS Eupen – Showed good depth in their squad, with substitutes making an immediate impact. Their high-press in the second half troubled Al Taawoun’s build-up play.
• Al Taawoun – Impressed with their first-half fluidity and set-piece execution. Their defense, however, will need to improve concentration ahead of the Saudi Pro League season.

Standout Players

For Eupen, the second-half substitute who scored the equalizer was lively throughout his time on the pitch. For Al Taawoun, the midfielder who scored the free kick displayed excellent technique and vision. Both teams will take positives from this valuable preparation exercise as they fine-tune their tactics for the campaigns ahead.