Sport

Two surprises in the Belgian Cup

In football, the round of 32 in the Belgian Cup (and the first round for the clubs from the top flight) has seen two major surprises. Zulte Waregem (photo) and Sint-Truiden were ousted by clubs from a lower division. Champions Anderlecht had a narrow escape against third-division URS Centre.

In Belgium, the clubs of the top division only enter the Cup competition in the round of 32. Moreover, they enjoy a protected status in this phase of the competition: first-division clubs can't be drawn against each other.

Still, the round of 32 saw 2 major surprises. Zulte-Waregem were ousted by third-division White Star Woluwe (2-1) while Sint-Truiden were stunned by second-division Doornik (2-1).

Champions Anderlecht were lucky to escape against third-division URS Centre. After 90 minutes, the score was level at 2-all. In extra time, Anderlecht were not able to make the difference and penalties would decide on the outcome. Anderlecht players kept cool and won the series 4-1 (photo: Anderlecht striker Romelu Lukaku celebrates after taking the winning penalty).

Cup holders AA Gent posted a comfortable win against second-division Tienen (4-1). Midfielder Tim Smolders scored two goals.

Cup results (teams advancing in bold):

  • KV Kortrijk - Virton (III) 2-1
  • Charleroi - Waasland-Beveren (II) 1-2
  • AA Gent - Tienen (II) 4-1
  • Lille (IV) - Cercle Brugge 0-4
  • RC Genk - Coxyde (III) 3-0
  • KV Mechelen - Waregem (III) 7-0
  • Eupen - Turnhout (II) 2-1
  • Westerlo - Roeselare (II) 2-1
  • Doornik (II) - Sint-Truiden 2-1
  • G.Beerschot - E.Aalst (III) 3-0
  • Woluwe (III) - Zulte Waregem 2-1
  • Lierse - Rupel-Boom 4-0
  • Club Brugge - Lommel (II) 3-1
  • Standard - Antwerp FC (II) 2-1
  • Wetteren (II) - Lokeren 2-4
  • URS Centre (III) - Anderlecht 2-2 (pen. 1-4)

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