Antwerp delivered a resounding 4-0 victory over Cercle Brugge at the Jan Breydel Stadion in the Jupiler Pro League's 23rd round. The match began dramatically with Cercle Brugge's goalkeeper Warleson receiving an early red card in the 10th minute, setting the tone for a challenging afternoon for the hosts. Antwerp capitalized on the numerical advantage, with Christopher Scott opening the scoring in the 43rd minute, followed by a penalty from Vincent Janssen deep into added time, ensuring a comfortable halftime lead.
Somers Shines as Antwerp Seal Victory
The second half saw Antwerp continue to dominate, with Yuto Tsunashima adding a third goal just four minutes after the break. Thibo Somers, who was instrumental throughout the match, capped off the performance with a goal in the 59th minute. Somers not only scored but also assisted in Tsunashima's goal, showcasing his pivotal role in Antwerp's attacking prowess.
Possession and Passing Precision Define Antwerp's Play
Antwerp's control of the match was evident in their 70% possession and a passing accuracy of 85%, completing 486 successful passes out of 570. In contrast, Cercle Brugge struggled to maintain any foothold, managing just 30% possession and a solitary shot on goal, reflecting their inability to mount any credible threat.
Looking Ahead for Both Teams
For Cercle Brugge, this defeat marks another setback in a season that has seen mixed results, with recent form showing signs of struggle. Conversely, Antwerp's emphatic win boosts their momentum, following inconsistent performances in previous outings. With Thibo Somers in commanding form, Antwerp will aim to build on this victory as they continue their campaign.
