Ayensa Hat-Trick Powers Standard to Victory Over Beveren

Standard Liège ended a six-match winless streak with a decisive victory over Beveren on Friday, with Ayensa delivering a masterclass performance by scoring his first professional hat-trick. The match, played at Sclessin, was marked by an electric atmosphere from the home supporters, who created a “grand soir” atmosphere ahead of kickoff.

The win, secured under the guidance of Euvrard, saw the Rouches return to their familiar 4-3-3 formation, a tactical move that ultimately paid off. The performance was a collective effort, but the night belonged to Ayensa, who had been searching for goals since his last strike against Antwerp and finally rediscovered his clinical touch.

Electric Atmosphere at Sclessin

The stage was set for a crucial encounter as Standard looked to halt their winless run. The stakes were high, and the fans responded in kind. Supporters in Sclessin created an incredible atmosphere, deploying a tifo in tribune 3 with the message “pour ces couleurs qui font vibrer mon coeur” (for these colors that make my heart vibrate).

Adding to the visual spectacle, smoke from flares filled the stadium in the moments before kickoff, engulfing parts of the ground. The display was not confined to one section; flares were also set off in the T4 section, where a banner from the ultras read “Pour nos frères interdits de vivre leur passion” (For our brothers forbidden from living their passion). The palpable energy from the stands was a clear signal of the importance the match held for the club and its supporters.

Euvrard's Formation Change Proves Effective

Euvrard’s decision to revert to a 4-3-3 formation proved instrumental. The lineup was close to his usual, and this tactical shift allowed Standard to take greater control of the midfield, a key area that had been a point of contention during their recent poor run. And this time, “it’s passed.”

The standout performer was undoubtedly Ayensa. Rated an 8/10, the player played a “match almost perfect.” His performance was defined by precision and composure, qualities that had eluded him in recent weeks. After a goal drought that stretched back to the victory over Antwerp, Ayensa broke through with a historic night, scoring his first-ever professional hat-trick. His finishing was clinical, and his movement across the pitch was just as sharp, ensuring he was a constant threat to the Beveren defense.

Midfield Partnership Drives Standard's Success

Ayensa’s success was complemented by strong performances in midfield. Fosso, operating alongside Ayensa, was rated 7/10 for his work in both defense and attack. His ability to recover the ball and then link up with Ayensa allowed him to create a scoring chance, which resulted in a shot that sailed just over the bar. It was noted that this was Fosso’s best match since he is Rouche. Their partnership was a key feature of Standard’s dominance in the middle of the park.

Euvrard was also given credit for his management, earning a 7/10 rating. His tactical adjustments, including the positioning of Trouillet higher up the pitch to provide better service in transition, were crucial. Trouillet, who himself received a 7/10, benefited from Fosso’s presence next to him, which “liberated him of certain tasks” and allowed him to deliver more effective balls into the final third. The midfield trio, completed by Drammeh, provided speed, variety, and a solid base to launch attacks.

Defense Secures Clean Sheet Despite Pressure

While the attack grabbed the headlines, Standard’s defense also played its part in securing the clean sheet. Hautekiet was solid at the back, earning a 6/10 for his serious defensive work. While he was slightly more pressured in the fourth quarter, he largely limited the spaces for the Beveren attackers, contributing to the team’s overall defensive organization.

In attack, the interplay between the front players was a highlight. Touzghar and Drammeh often combined, especially in the opening stages, with Drammeh using his speed to add variety to Standard’s attacks. Touzghar himself searched for small spaces throughout the match, alternating between effective link-up play and less precise passes. The dynamic nature of the forward line kept Beveren guessing and was a key factor in Standard’s ability to control the game’s tempo.

What’s Next for Standard Liège

This victory provides a significant boost for Standard Liège, ending a concerning run of results that had seen them fail to win in their previous six matches.

The Rouches will now look to carry this form into their next match. The team will be aiming to secure another positive result to continue climbing the league table and build on the foundation laid against Beveren. The focus will be on maintaining the defensive solidity and attacking fluidity that were on display in their convincing win.

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