VVV Venlo and KAS Eupen served up an entertaining five-goal pre-season fixture as the Belgian visitors edged a 3-2 win in the Netherlands on August 2, 2026. In a match that had everything a friendly crowd could ask for, KAS Eupen showed sharp finishing and resilience, while VVV Venlo demonstrated enough attacking quality to suggest positive signs ahead of the new domestic campaign.

Match overview

The International Club Friendly, played at VVV Venlo’s home ground, saw both teams treat the occasion as a serious fitness and sharpness test. Eupen took the initiative early, pressing high and moving the ball quickly through midfield. Their reward came with a well-worked opener, but Venlo responded almost immediately with an equalizer that settled any nerves. The scoreline swung back and forth before Eupen landed the decisive blow late on to seal a morale-boosting away victory.

Key moments

• Early exchanges: Eupen controlled possession in the opening 20 minutes and created several half-chances before breaking the deadlock.
• Quick response: VVV Venlo leveled after a swift counter-attack, exploiting space behind the Eupen full-backs.
• Second-half tempo: Both coaches made multiple substitutions, which opened up the pitch and led to end-to-end play.
• Winning goal: KAS Eupen completed their comeback with a composed finish after a well-timed through ball.

Tactical story

VVV Venlo looked to build possession from the back, but Eupen’s pressing game often forced hurried clearances and turnovers. The Belgian side used wide rotations to stretch the Venlo defense, while the hosts threatened from set pieces and direct runs in transition. Ultimately, Eupen’s penalty-box composure proved decisive—they generated cleaner chances and converted with greater efficiency.

Standout performers

Eupen’s attacking unit took the headlines, particularly the players operating between the lines, who repeatedly found pockets of space. Venlo’s goalkeeper also impressed with several sharp saves that kept the match competitive until the final whistle. For both managers, the individual performances will provide useful selection pointers as the season approaches.

What it means

For KAS Eupen, the win builds confidence and confirms that their pre-season training block is translating into positive on-pitch results. VVV Venlo will take encouragement from their resilience and ability to create chances, though defensive concentration will be a focus in their remaining friendlies. Matches like this underline the value of international club friendlies in providing varied opposition and a sharper competitive edge.