WESTERLO, Belgium – A hard-fought 1-2 victory for Club Brugge over KVC Westerlo on Saturday evening was overshadowed by a concerning injury to captain Hans Vanaken. The Belgian international left the pitch at halftime and did not return, casting a shadow over the team’s win and raising questions about his availability for upcoming matches.
The result at ‘t Kuipje stadium was crucial for Club Brugge, who needed a win to keep pace with league leaders Union Saint-Gilloise, who had earlier defeated Dender 2-0. While the team secured the three points, the manner of the victory wasn’t entirely convincing, and the loss of Vanaken is a significant blow.
Club Brugge took an early lead through Christos Tzolis. A shot from Westerlo’s Haspolat deflected off teammate Ferri, falling kindly for Forbs, who set up Tzolis for a composed finish past the goalkeeper. The Greek international skillfully navigated around the keeper and slotted the ball into the net, hitting the crossbar on its way in.
The visitors doubled their advantage with a stunning goal from Antonio Tresoldi. Kyriani Sabbe delivered a perfectly weighted ball to Tresoldi, who controlled it beautifully and headed it beyond the Westerlo goalkeeper. The goal, Tresoldi’s first for Club Brugge outside of the Jan Breydel Stadium, and his second away goal in the Jupiler Pro League – he previously scored against Cercle Brugge – was initially checked by VAR for offside, but it was ultimately allowed to stand.
However, the joy was short-lived as Vanaken sustained an injury just before halftime, forcing him off the pitch. Ivan Leko, the Club Brugge coach, expressed his concern after the match. “If he goes off the pitch, you know it’s something painful, because he loves to play so much,” Leko said, according to Sporza. Mignolet took over the captain’s armband in Vanaken’s absence, with Mechele missing from the squad due to illness.
Westerlo attempted to mount a comeback in the second half, and they were rewarded in the 64th minute when Kaito Kimura headed home from a corner kick, narrowing the deficit to 1-2. Despite the goal, Westerlo were unable to find an equalizer, effectively ending their hopes of reaching the Champions’ Play-offs.
The win moves Club Brugge to within three points of Union Saint-Gilloise at the top of the Jupiler Pro League table. However, the focus now shifts to the fitness of Hans Vanaken. The club has not yet released details regarding the severity of his injury, but Leko’s comments suggest It’s a cause for concern.
Vanaken, a mainstay in the Club Brugge midfield and a key player for the Belgian national team, has a long and distinguished career. According to Wikipedia, he currently has 402 appearances and 112 goals for Club Brugge. He began his career at Lommel United before spells at Lokeren and a return to Lommel, before establishing himself as a key figure at Club Brugge.
The injury comes at a critical juncture in the season as Club Brugge prepares for the play-offs. The team will be hoping for positive news on Vanaken’s condition in the coming days. His absence would undoubtedly be felt, both on and off the pitch.
Westerlo, meanwhile, will be left to rue missed opportunities. Despite a spirited second-half performance, they were unable to overcome the early goals conceded and will now miss out on the chance to compete in the Champions’ Play-offs. The defeat confirms they will not be among the top six teams in the league.
Club Brugge’s next fixture is yet to be confirmed, but they will be eager to build on this victory, and more importantly, to have their captain back in contention as quickly as possible. The club will provide an update on Vanaken’s condition when more information becomes available.
