Gent, Belgium – KAA Gent defeated Zulte Waregem 2-0 in a Jupiler Pro League match on Thursday, March 13, 2026, but the victory was overshadowed by a medical incident in the stands that delayed the kickoff by half an hour. The win pushes Gent closer to securing a spot in the Champions’ Play-offs, while Zulte Waregem were left to rue a missed penalty and their continuing struggles in the league.
The match, played at the Planet Group Arena, saw Max Dean open the scoring for Gent in the 38th minute. Wilfried Kanga then doubled the lead from the penalty spot in the 68th minute, sealing the three points for the home side. However, the pre-match drama took center stage as a supporter required immediate medical attention in the stands, forcing a delay to the start of the game.
Medical Emergency Delays Kickoff
The game was originally scheduled to begin at 9:16 PM local time (21:16 CET), but was postponed after a supporter experienced a medical emergency. Details surrounding the incident remain limited, but medical personnel swiftly attended to the individual. KAA Gent coach Rik De Mil expressed his concern for the supporter’s well-being, stating his thoughts were “first and foremost with the person who received medical help” and hoping for a positive outcome. He acknowledged the unusual start to the match, noting that it created a different atmosphere.
Gent Dominates After Delay
Despite the unsettling delay, Gent appeared unfazed, starting the match strongly and attempting to put Zulte Waregem under immediate pressure. According to De Mil, his team’s organization was key to limiting Zulte Waregem’s attacking opportunities. “Zulte is a very good footballing team, but our organization was good. That’s why they didn’t get to play as much football,” he said.
Dean’s opening goal in the 38th minute rewarded Gent’s early pressure, and Kanga’s penalty conversion shortly after halftime seemed to put the game beyond Zulte Waregem’s reach. However, the visitors were given a lifeline when they were awarded a penalty in the second half.
Roef Saves Penalty, Secures Victory
Jeppe Erenbjerg stepped up to seize the penalty for Zulte Waregem, but Gent goalkeeper Davy Roef proved to be the hero, saving the spot-kick. This save proved to be a pivotal moment in the match, shifting the momentum firmly in Gent’s favor. De Mil highlighted the importance of Roef’s save, stating it provided a “mental boost” for the team. “On the moment that Davy saves the ball, you know you get an extra boost,” he explained.
The missed penalty seemed to deflate Zulte Waregem, and they were unable to mount a serious comeback attempt. Gent comfortably saw out the remainder of the match, securing a deserved 2-0 victory.
Champions’ Play-off Berth Within Reach
This win significantly boosts Gent’s chances of qualifying for the Champions’ Play-offs, the final stage of the Belgian Pro League season where the top teams compete for the league title. The team is now firmly in contention for a top-six finish, a crucial objective for any Belgian club with European ambitions.
While the victory was sweet for Gent, coach De Mil remained cautious, acknowledging that the battle for a play-off spot is far from over. He stated that the weekend’s results will be crucial, but emphasized the team’s focus on maintaining their current form.
Zulte Waregem Left to Reflect
For Zulte Waregem, the defeat was a disappointing one. The missed penalty proved to be a costly error, and they were unable to break down a well-organized Gent defense. The team will need to regroup and improve their performance if they are to climb the league table.
Lineups
KAA Gent: Davy Roef, M. Volckaert, S. Van Der Heyden, D. Hashioka, Leonardo Lopes, T. De Vlieger, Hyun-Seok Hong, M. Skóraś, J. Duverne, Wilfried Kanga, Max Dean.
Zulte Waregem: Brent Gabriël, Jakob Kiilerich, L. Willen, Benoit De Jaegere, T. Claes, Dirk Asare, J. Erenbjerg, Y.
What’s Next?
KAA Gent will next face [next opponent to be confirmed] on [date to be confirmed] in another crucial Jupiler Pro League fixture. Zulte Waregem will look to bounce back when they host [next opponent to be confirmed] on [date to be confirmed].
The focus now shifts to the upcoming matches as both teams continue their pursuit of their respective goals in the Belgian Pro League.
