GENT, Belgium – KAA Gent continued their strong form with a convincing 3-0 victory over Dender at the Ghelamco Arena on Thursday, September 19, 2025. Goals from Wilfried Kanga (two) and Abdelkahar Kadri sealed the win for Ivan Leko’s side, solidifying their position in the Jupiler Pro League standings and fueling ambitions for a place in the Champions Playoffs.
The match, as described by coach Ivan Leko, was a testament to the team’s focus and discipline. “It was a challenge to see how humble, focused and disciplined we could be,” Leko stated after the match, highlighting the importance of maintaining concentration even after a significant win against Antwerp the previous week. The victory marks a 6-point haul in as many games for Gent, allowing them to look upwards in the league table.
Kanga, affectionately known as ‘Big Willy,’ was the star of the show, netting a brace that delighted the home crowd. The Ivorian forward expressed his satisfaction with the goals, but emphasized the team’s collective success. “Of course, I am happy with that. But I am just as happy with our win with ten men last weekend,” Kanga said. “I don’t have a specific goal tally in my head. As long as I can help the team, I am satisfied. Our goal is to extend the winning streak.”
Gent started the match strongly, a tactic that proved effective in boosting their confidence. According to Kanga, after securing a second goal, they were able to control the majority of the game, despite acknowledging that maintaining dominance for the full 90 minutes is unrealistic. “We started very strongly, which also gave confidence a boost. After the 2nd goal, we controlled the match especially. It is impossible to dominate the full 90 minutes,” he explained.
The team’s attacking prowess was further highlighted by Leko, who praised the contributions of players like Michał Skóraś and Abdelkahar Kadri. “Gent is swinging more and more every week thanks to artists like Michał Skóraś and Abdelkahar Kadri,” Leko noted. Kanga echoed this sentiment, appreciating the intelligence and passing ability of his teammates, including Skóraś, Kadri, Ito, and Delorge, who consistently find him in advantageous positions.
The win wasn’t without its challenges. Reports leading up to the match indicated that Leko had been critical of his players’ focus during the training week following the victory over Antwerp. However, the team responded emphatically on the pitch, demonstrating a renewed commitment to discipline and concentration. Leko acknowledged the difficulty of maintaining that level of focus after a big win, stating, “How much discipline could we bring, how much focus could we bring…”.
While the victory was “solid,” as Leko described it, it wasn’t necessarily a display of breathtaking artistry. However, the coach prioritized the team’s defensive solidity and overall control of the match. This pragmatic approach suggests a focus on building a strong foundation as they navigate a demanding schedule.
Looking ahead, KAA Gent will travel to face Anderlecht on Tuesday, September 23, 2025. Leko has already stated his intention to win that match, signaling a continued ambition to climb the league table. The match represents a significant test for Gent, as Anderlecht will undoubtedly present a sterner challenge than Dender.
The upcoming fixture against Anderlecht is particularly important as Gent aims to secure a spot in the Champions Playoffs. The team’s recent form, coupled with the confidence gained from the win over Dender, will be crucial as they prepare for this high-stakes encounter. The match will be a key indicator of Gent’s ability to compete with the league’s top teams.
The victory over Dender also provides a boost in morale as Gent prepares for a busy period. With matches coming thick and fast, maintaining a consistent level of performance will be essential. Leko will be hoping that his players can continue to demonstrate the discipline and focus that were so evident against Dender.
For KAA Gent supporters, the win represents a positive step forward in what has been a somewhat turbulent period for the club. The team’s ability to overcome challenges and secure important victories is a testament to the resilience of the players and the leadership of Ivan Leko. The focus now shifts to the upcoming match against Anderlecht, where Gent will look to build on their recent success and further solidify their position in the Jupiler Pro League.
The team’s performance against Dender showcased a blend of individual brilliance and collective effort. Kanga’s goals, Kadri’s artistry, and the team’s overall defensive solidity all contributed to the victory. As Gent looks ahead to future challenges, they will need to maintain this balance in order to achieve their goals.
The win also highlights the importance of squad depth. Leko’s ability to make effective substitutions and utilize the talents of all his players will be crucial as the season progresses. The team’s versatility and adaptability will be key assets in navigating a demanding schedule.
KAA Gent’s next confirmed match is against Anderlecht on Tuesday, September 23, 2025. Fans can follow the match live on DAZN Belgium and through updates on the KAA Gent official website. Stay tuned for further news and analysis as Gent continues their pursuit of success in the Jupiler Pro League.
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