The Jupiler Pro League match between Sint-Truiden (STVV) and Royal Antwerp on January 24, 2025, was filled with emotions and competitive spirit, starting with a moment of silence for Eddy Wauters, the former Antwerp chairman who passed away at the age of 91. Wauters had been intimately tied to the club, having been both player and president for 42 years, and attendees felt his absence throughout the match.
STVV took to the field facing pressure as they sat 14th on the league table with only 22 points, caught within the looming threat of relegation. On the other hand, Antwerp, under the leadership of Jonas De Roeck, aimed to solidify their spot within the top ranks, currently holding fifth place with 36 points from their matches.
The match kicked off with STVV eager to break their unfortunate streak, having not beaten Antwerp since November 21, 2021. The game was intense from the start, leading to more than just rivalry on the pitch. At the ten-minute mark, Antwerp struck first when Anthony Valencia capitalized on a rebound from Ryoya Ogawa's effort with urgency, giving the visitors the early lead.
Just as Antwerp appeared to be gaining control, the game shifted dramatically when STVV’s Didier Lamkel Zé drew the attention of fans and staff alike. During the first half, Lamkel Zé was taken down inside the penalty box by Dennis Odoi, who recklessly flung his arm at the ball, resulting in a penalty being awarded. Despite initially missing the penalty shot, Lamkel Zé showcased quick thinking, scoring off the rebound to equalize for STVV.
His celebration—a mixture of exuberance and defiance—was directed at the visiting Antwerp fans, demonstrating the depth of emotion tied to playing against his former club. This goal marked Lamkel Zé's rise to prominence within the game, proving his pivotal role for STVV going forward.
Post-equalization, tension built as both teams unfurled the depth of their attacking capabilities, showcasing bright moments interspersed with frustrating misses. The match saw STVV managing 19 shots on goal compared to Antwerp's 18, highlighting the dynamic but erratic nature of the fixture. Despite the festival of chances, neither team could convert these opportunities, leading the match to retain its stalemate.
The second half escalated with fevered anticipation, punctuated by near-misses from both sides. Jaïro Riedewald, after controlling the ball, found himself ensnared by Fujita's quick plays, resulting in altercations and ensuing yellow cards, adding to the charged atmosphere. It was evident both teams were prepared to lay their relentless pursuit of victory on the line.
Despite Antwerp's stronger standing within the league, they couldn't break past STVV’s awakened defense. Both sides continued to exchange opportunities, but the resilience of each goalkeeper kept the final score to 1-1. STVV's Kokubo was particularly effective, denying attempts from Vincent Janssen and Doumbia with proficient saves. Meanwhile, Lammens from Antwerp managed to respond with equal deftness during STVV's pressing attacks.
Events turned even more dramatic as the match drew to its close. Riedewald, feeling the heat of the moment and frustrated with the pace of play, lashed out, receiving his second yellow card and subsequent red—tensions running high as players tussled for superiority. This concluded not just the match but symbolized the arduous nature of both teams' aspirations—desire marred by stakes and importance far greater than mere points on the league table.
Overall, the match highlighted key performances, particularly Lamkel Zé's return to prominence, and encapsulated the emotional currents flowing through the players as they navigated personal histories and ambitions against the backdrop of league realities. It left Lambert’s Red & White feeling they had missed out on capitalizing on their chances, whereas STVV likely left the field with mixed feelings—still floundering, yet firmly grasping for hope as they staved off relegation worries for another day.
Both teams now face pivotal moments as they move forward, with supporters eagerly awaiting the impacts of this emotionally charged draw on their campaigns.