Heracles Almelo produced a dominant display to sweep aside RKC Waalwijk 3-0 at the Erve Asito on 10 October 2026, consolidating their position at the top of the Netherlands Eerste Divisie. A first-half strike from striker Samuel Armenteros and a second-half brace from winger Bilal Ould-Chikh sealed a comprehensive victory, leaving RKC to reflect on a chastening evening.

Match Overview

Heracles were on the front foot from the first minute, pressing RKC high and forcing errors. The visitors struggled to cope with Heracles’ pace and movement, particularly out wide. RKC’s midfield was overrun, and their defence was repeatedly pulled out of position. Heracles took the lead inside 10 minutes and never looked back, controlling the game with maturity and adding two more goals after the break. RKC managed just one shot on target all game, a testament to Heracles’ defensive solidity.

Key Moments

• 8th minute – 1-0: Heracles took an early lead when Samuel Armenteros latched onto a through ball from Ould-Chikh and slotted past the RKC goalkeeper.
• 51st minute – 2-0: Bilal Ould-Chikh doubled the lead with a stunning solo effort, dribbling past two defenders before curling the ball into the top corner.
• 88th minute – 3-0: Ould-Chikh grabbed his second, finishing off a counter-attack with a composed finish after being played in by Armenteros.

Tactical Story

Heracles lined up in a 4-2-3-1 with Ould-Chikh and right winger Emil Hansson given licence to attack. RKC’s 4-4-2 was meant to be solid, but their full-backs were constantly exposed by Heracles’ overlapping runs. The home side’s pressing was relentless, forcing RKC into 14 turnovers in their own half. Heracles manager John Lammers will be particularly pleased with the clean sheet, their fifth of the season. RKC’s game plan never got off the ground, and their manager Henk Fraser cut a frustrated figure on the sidelines.

Standout Players

Bilal Ould-Chikh was unplayable, scoring two and assisting one. His dribbling and finishing were of the highest quality. Samuel Armenteros led the line superbly, holding up play and bringing others into the game. In defence, Justin Hoogma was a calming presence. For RKC, goalkeeper Etienne Vaessen made several saves to keep the score respectable, but he was badly let down by his defence.

Season Impact

Heracles remain top of the Eerste Divisie, two points clear of Almere City, with a game in hand. RKC drop to 13th, their playoff hopes fading after a third defeat in four games. Heracles next face a tricky away trip to Volendam, while RKC host Vitesse Arnhem. On this form, Heracles look the team to beat in the division, and their attacking trio of Armenteros, Ould-Chikh, and Hansson will strike fear into any defence.