KV Mechelen delivered a commanding performance at the AFAS Stadion, defeating Antwerp 2-0 in the Jupiler Pro League's 24th round. Myron van Brederode opened the scoring in the 11th minute with a well-placed shot assisted by J. Marsa, setting the tone for the home side. This victory marks a significant shift for Mechelen, who had been struggling to turn draws into wins in recent fixtures.
Van Brederode Leads Early Charge
The match began with KV Mechelen asserting themselves quickly. Van Brederode's early goal was a result of precise teamwork and kept the home fans cheering. Antwerp seemed stunned early on and struggled to regain composure, making several substitutions, including D. Foulon's replacement by M. Al Sahafi in the 38th minute. Despite dominating possession, Antwerp could not break through Mechelen's resolute defense.
Mechelen Seals Victory with Vanrafelghem's Strike
In the second half, Mechelen continued their aggressive approach. Keano Vanrafelghem doubled the lead in the 65th minute, courtesy of an assist from Van Brederode, solidifying the hosts' control. Antwerp's attempts to respond were thwarted by Mechelen's solid defensive setup and Nacho Miras' critical saves, showcasing his 8/10 performance rating.
Statistical Insights
Despite holding 67% possession and taking 16 shots, Antwerp failed to find the net, largely due to Mechelen's disciplined defense and five crucial saves from their goalkeeper. Bouke Boersma stood out with 32 duels and two key passes, while Fredrik Hammar impressed with six tackles. This defensive robustness, coupled with a strategic offensive display, was key to Mechelen's success.
Turning the Tide
This victory provides a valuable boost for Mechelen, who had experienced a series of draws in their recent outings. The win moves them upward in the standings, suggesting a potential resurgence. As for Antwerp, the defeat ends their promising run of form, leaving them to reassess before their next fixture. This match, showcasing tactical discipline and standout performances, was a testament to Mechelen's capabilities when firing on all cylinders.
