KVSK Lommel Edges FCV Dender EH in Five-Goal Belgian Pro League Thriller

In a pulsating Belgian Pro League encounter at the Soevereinstadion on 17 May 2026, KVSK Lommel snatched a dramatic 3-2 victory over FCV Dender EH. The match featured a frantic second half with five goals, as Lommel's resilience proved decisive in front of their home supporters.

First Half: Tactical Sparring with No Goals

The opening 45 minutes were a tense, tactical affair. Both sides cancelled each other out in midfield, with clear-cut chances at a premium. Lommel's defence, marshalled by captain Jordi van der Heyden, stood firm against Dender's quick counter-attacks. The visitors, known for their pressing game, were unable to break the deadlock, and the teams went into the break level at 0-0.

Second Half Explodes into Life

The game burst into action just after the hour mark. Lommel opened the scoring in the 52nd minute when striker Thomas Vermeulen latched onto a through ball and slotted calmly past Dender goalkeeper Arne Peeters. Dender responded swiftly, equalising through a powerful header from Jens De Smet in the 61st minute.

Lommel regained the lead in the 68th minute via a stunning long-range strike from midfielder Robin Mertens, but Dender refused to wilt. Substitute Liam Hendrickx levelled again in the 78th minute, setting up a nervy finale.

Dramatic Late Winner

With the match heading for a draw, Lommel's Kobe Verstraeten emerged as the hero. In the 87th minute, he pounced on a loose ball inside the box after a corner kick and fired home to make it 3-2. The home crowd erupted as Lommel held on through five minutes of stoppage time to secure all three points.

Impact on the Standings

The victory lifted Lommel into mid-table safety in the Pro League, while Dender remained mired in a relegation battle. Lommel's never-say-die attitude, especially at home, continues to be a hallmark of their season. For Dender, the defeat was a bitter pill to swallow after twice fighting back.