CHARLEROI, Belgium – In a Belgian Pro League match that stretched into the depths of added time, Joel Ordóñez delivered a stunning blow for Club Brugge, scoring in the 100th minute to secure a 2-1 victory over Royal Charleroi on Saturday. The late goal sent shockwaves through the Stade du Pays de Charleroi and solidified Club Brugge’s position in the league standings.
The match, played on March 1, 2026, was a tense affair from the outset, with both teams battling for crucial points in the Pro League regular season. Charleroi drew first blood through Cheick Keita in the 35th minute, igniting the home crowd. However, Club Brugge responded through Kevin Guiton in the 61st minute, leveling the score and setting the stage for a dramatic finish.
As the clock ticked past the 90th minute, it appeared the match was headed for a draw. But Ordóñez, the 21-year-old Ecuadorian center-back, had other plans. The defender, who joined Club Brugge in August 2022, rose above the Charleroi defense to head home a late corner, sparking wild celebrations among the visiting team and their supporters. The goal marked Ordóñez’s fourth of the season in league play, a significant contribution from a traditionally defensive position.
The victory is a significant boost for Club Brugge, who currently sit in second place in the Pro League with 56 points from 27 matches, trailing Union Saint-Gilloise. Charleroi, meanwhile, remain in the lower half of the table with 33 points, continuing their struggle for consistency this season. The result also sees Genk move into the top six, overtaking Gent.
The match wasn’t without its controversy. Christos Tzolis of Club Brugge was visibly injured during the game, displaying a damaged leg after a challenge. Aurélien Scheidler, the Charleroi striker, voiced strong disagreement with the match officials following the final whistle, expressing his belief that the refereeing decisions were unfair. Club Brugge coach Ivan Leko, however, disagreed with Scheidler’s assessment.
Ordóñez’s journey to this pivotal moment is noteworthy. Born in Guayaquil, Ecuador, in 2004, he began his youth career with Deportivo Azogues before moving to Independiente del Valle. He made his senior debut for Independiente del Valle in April 2022 before being snapped up by Club Brugge just two months later for a reported €4 million. Initially assigned to Club NXT, Club Brugge’s reserve side, Ordóñez quickly demonstrated his potential and was promoted to the senior team in August 2022. He recently extended his contract with the club until 2029, signaling a long-term commitment from both parties.
The Ecuadorian international has also represented his country at various youth levels, including the U15 and U20 teams, and has now established himself as a regular member of the senior national team, earning 14 caps as of November 2025. His consistent performances for Club Brugge have undoubtedly contributed to his growing reputation on the international stage.
The late drama in Charleroi underscores the unpredictable nature of football and the importance of every minute, even those deep into added time. For Club Brugge, Ordóñez’s goal is more than just three points; it’s a testament to their resilience and a statement of intent as they continue their pursuit of league glory. The win also comes amidst speculation linking Ordóñez with a move to Liverpool, though Club Brugge appears committed to retaining their key defender.
What’s Next: Club Brugge will return to action next week with a home match against Sint-Truidense on March 8th. Charleroi will travel to face Westerlo on the same day. Both matches are crucial as the Pro League season heads towards its climax.
What did you think of Ordóñez’s late winner? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
