Leuven B 4-3 Zelzate: Seven-Goal Thriller Ends in Narrow Leuven Victory

Oud-Heverlee Leuven B edged a remarkable seven-goal contest against Zelzate, winning 4-3 in the Belgian First Amateur Division on 13 September 2026. The match was a rollercoaster of attacking football, with the lead changing hands multiple times before the hosts finally prevailed.

From the first whistle, both teams showed attacking intent. Leuven B, the reserve side of the Belgian Pro League club, played with youthful energy, while Zelzate relied on their experience and counter-attacking prowess.

Match Overview

Leuven B took the lead in the 12th minute through a fine solo goal from Jasper Van Damme, who dribbled past two defenders before finishing low. Zelzate responded well and equalised in the 24th minute when their striker Dries Maes headed home a cross from the left.

The goals kept coming. Leuven B regained the lead in the 33rd minute, Niels Vermeulen converting a penalty after a foul in the box. But Zelzate struck back just before half-time, Bram De Smet finding the net with a powerful shot from the edge of the area. The teams went into the break level at 2-2.

Key Moments and Second Half

The second half was equally frantic. Leuven B went 3-2 up in the 52nd minute when Van Damme grabbed his second, tapping in from close range after a goalmouth scramble. Zelzate refused to lie down, and they equalised for the third time in the 68th minute through a stunning free-kick from Maes.

Just as it seemed the match would end in a draw, Leuven B found a late winner. In the 84th minute, substitute Arne Peeters latched onto a through ball and coolly slotted past the goalkeeper. Zelzate pushed for another equaliser, but Leuven B's defence held firm in the closing minutes.

Tactical Story

Both teams lined up in attacking formations, with Leuven B using a 4-2-3-1 and Zelzate a 4-3-3. The midfield areas were constantly bypassed as both sides looked to play direct, vertical football. Defensively, both teams were guilty of leaving too much space, which contributed to the high scoreline.

Leuven B's superior fitness and youthful legs told in the final 15 minutes, as they pressed higher and won the ball back more frequently. Zelzate's experienced defence struggled with the pace of Leuven's substitutes, and that ultimately proved decisive.

Standout Players

• Jasper Van Damme (Leuven B): Scored twice and was a constant menace with his dribbling and movement.
• Dries Maes (Zelzate): Also scored twice, including a brilliant free-kick, and led the line well.
• Arne Peeters (Leuven B): The super-sub scored the winning goal and changed the game with his energy.
• Bram De Smet (Zelzate): Scored a fine goal and created several chances for his teammates.

Table Impact and What's Next

The three points lift Leuven B into a more comfortable position in the Belgian First Amateur Division, and the young side will take huge confidence from this attacking display. Zelzate, meanwhile, remain in the mid-table mix but will be disappointed to have conceded four goals despite scoring three.

Leuven B next face a tough away trip to a promotion contender, while Zelzate host a fellow mid-table side. Both teams will be hoping to tighten up defensively, but fans who witnessed this seven-goal spectacle will remember it for a long time.