Genk emerged victorious with a commanding 3-1 win over Dinamo Zagreb at Stadion Maksimir in the UEFA Europa League Round of 32. The match saw early fireworks from Genk as they took control with a two-goal lead within the first 21 minutes, thanks to Bryan Heynen and Zakaria El Ouahdi. Dinamo Zagreb managed to reduce the deficit before halftime with a goal from Dion Drena Beljo, but it was El Ouahdi's second goal in the dying minutes that sealed the deal for the visitors.
El Ouahdi’s Impact and Genk’s Dominance
Genk's aggressive start set the tone, with Heynen opening the scoring in the 15th minute assisted by Karetsas. Just six minutes later, El Ouahdi doubled the lead, showcasing his clinical finishing. Despite a response from Beljo for Dinamo in the 44th minute, the home side struggled to capitalize on their 55% possession and 89% passing accuracy. Genk's defense, led by Robin Mirisola in total duels, remained resolute.
Late Surge and Tactical Control
In the second half, Dinamo pushed for an equalizer but found themselves stifled by Genk's tactical adjustments. Substitutions by the away side, including the introduction of Bibout and Steuckers, reinforced their midfield control. Genk maintained their edge, with El Ouahdi capping off the evening with a late goal in the 90th minute, ensuring a comfortable margin to take back to Belgium. Genk’s six shots on target reflected their attacking efficiency compared to Dinamo's less effective attempts.
Looking Forward
Genk’s recent form highlights their potential in the competition, with the team overperforming expectations in recent fixtures. Dinamo Zagreb, despite showing flashes of quality, will need to regroup ahead of the next leg and assess areas of improvement, especially in converting possession into tangible opportunities. El Ouahdi's standout performance, marked by his brace and high player rating, positions him as a key figure for Genk's aspirations moving forward.
