Zultvere B Team 1-2 Rupel Boom | International Club Friendly | 14 May 2026

Rupel Boom came from behind to defeat Zultvere B Team 2-1 in an entertaining pre-season friendly played in Belgium on Thursday evening. The match, part of a series of international club friendlies, gave both sides valuable minutes as they prepare for their respective domestic campaigns.

Match Summary

Zultvere B Team, the reserve side of Belgian first-division club Zultvere, started brightly and took a deserved lead in the 22nd minute. A clever through-ball from midfielder Tom Vandenberghe split the Rupel Boom defence, and striker Jens De Wit prodded the ball past the advancing goalkeeper. The young Zultvere side looked comfortable on the ball, playing crisp passes and dominating possession in the first half-hour.

However, Rupel Boom, a third-tier side, gradually worked their way into the contest. They equalised just before half-time when a corner kick was headed powerfully home by centre-back Pieter Van den Broeck. The goal gave the visitors a significant lift heading into the break.

Second Half Decider

The second half was a more physical affair, with both teams making several substitutions to test depth and fitness levels. Rupel Boom scored what proved to be the winner in the 67th minute. A quick counter-attack saw winger Kevin Maes sprint down the right flank and deliver a low cross that was turned home by substitute Nick Goris at the near post.

Zultvere B Team pushed for an equaliser in the closing stages, but Rupel Boom's defence, well organised by experienced centre-half Kris Peeters, held firm. The Zultvere youngsters created a few half-chances but lacked the final ball to truly trouble the goalkeeper.

Key Observations

• Zultvere B Team: Showed promise in possession and built from the back effectively. Their finishing, however, needs sharpening if they are to challenge in the Belgian reserve league.
• Rupel Boom: Displayed resilience and counter-attacking efficiency. The experience of their squad shone through against a younger opponent.
• Friendly context: The match served its purpose as a fitness exercise. No injuries were reported, and multiple players gained valuable minutes.

What's Next

Zultvere B Team continue their pre-season schedule with a friendly against a local Belgian amateur side next week. Rupel Boom, meanwhile, will face a tougher test against a first-division opponent as they fine-tune their tactics ahead of the new season. For now, the win provides a welcome boost of confidence for the third-tier outfit.