Standard Liege defeats FCV Dender 2-0 in Croky Cup to halt losing run
Standard Liege ended a three-match losing streak in competitive play by defeating FCV Dender 2-0 in the Croky Cup on October 16, 2026, at Sclessin. The victory secured a place in the next round of the Belgian Cup for the home side, though coach Vincent Euvrard’s team was forced to navigate anxious moments in the second half before sealing the result.
Sclessin returns to action with a dominant first half
Playing in front of supporters at Sclessin—who returned to the stadium after missing the weekend derby against Charleroi—Standard controlled the opening period. Euvrard chose not to rest players, opting instead for a starting lineup featuring Matthieu Epolo in goal and Bruny Nsimba up front against his former club. Adnane Abid broke the deadlock in the 30th minute, finishing neatly to give the hosts a 1-0 lead that reflected their first-half dominance.
Dender pressure tests the Standard defense after the break
The second half brought a shift in momentum as Dender, currently leading the Challenger Pro League, pressed for an equalizer. The visitors forced Standard back and dominated extended passages of play, threatening to push the tie into extra time. Euvrard intervened by making substitutions, bringing on Bernard Nguene, Mohr, and Dimitri Lavalée as the team sought stability.
Late goal by Bernard Nguene secures the victory
With Dender committing numbers forward in search of a late goal, Standard exploited the open spaces on the counterattack. In the 88th minute, a swift transition led by Abid caught the visiting defense out of position. Nguene initially miscued his first attempt but reacted quickly to beat goalkeeper Fortin with his second effort, making it 2-0 and extinguishing any hopes of a cup upset.
Context behind the fixture and upcoming fixtures
The result provides crucial relief for Standard following consecutive league defeats against Westerlo, KAA Gent, and a 1-0 reverse against Charleroi. Euvrard stated to La Dernière Heure ahead of the match that he felt pressure solely to return his team to winning ways rather than for his job security. For Dender, the defeat ends their cup run, echoing memories of their 3-2 elimination of the Rouches at the same stage last season.
Related reading
