Royal Antwerp opened their summer friendly campaign with an emphatic 3–0 victory over Greek giants Olympiacos at the Bosuilstadion. The Belgian side controlled proceedings from the first whistle, using the match to fine‑tune their tactical shape ahead of the upcoming season. Olympiacos, still building match fitness, were outplayed in all departments but will take valuable lessons from the encounter.

First‑Half Dominance

Antwerp wasted little time imposing themselves. A well‑worked move down the right flank in the 12th minute saw winger Michel‑Ange Balikwisha cut inside and fire a low shot that deflected past Olympiacos goalkeeper Alexandros Paschalakis. The goal settled any early nerves, and the home side continued to press high, forcing the Greek defence into repeated errors. Midfielder Alhassan Yusuf dictated the tempo, completing over 90% of his passes in the opening period.

The second goal arrived just before the half‑hour mark. A corner kick swung in by Arthur Vermeeren was met by the towering header of central defender Toby Alderweireld, whose experience proved decisive. Olympiacos struggled to cope with Antwerp’s physicality and struggled to create clear chances, with their best effort a long‑range drive from Daniel Podence that was comfortably saved.

Second‑Half Control and Third Goal

Antwerp manager Mark van Bommel made several substitutions at the break, giving minutes to fringe players. The changes did not disrupt the flow; if anything, the intensity increased. In the 64th minute, substitute striker Vincent Janssen pounced on a loose ball inside the box after a swift counter‑attack, slotting home to make it 3–0. Olympiacos had no answer and their best chance came deep in stoppage time when a free‑kick from Kostas Fortounis rattled the crossbar.

For Olympiacos, the match served as a stern test against a well‑organised opponent. Coach José Luis Mendilibar will focus on defensive organisation and building attacking chemistry in the coming friendlies. Antwerp, meanwhile, will be encouraged by their sharpness and clean sheet as they prepare for the start of the Belgian Pro League season.

Key Statistics

• Possession: Royal Antwerp 54% – Olympiacos 46%
• Shots on target: Royal Antwerp 7 – Olympiacos 3
• Corners: Royal Antwerp 6 – Olympiacos 4
• Fouls committed: Royal Antwerp 11 – Olympiacos 14

The result sends a clear message: Royal Antwerp are hitting form early, while Olympiacos have work to do before the Greek Super League kicks off. Both sides will face further test matches in the coming weeks.