Royal Antwerp 0-1 RC Sporting Charleroi: Late Drama Decides Pro League Clash

Belgian Pro League | Bosuilstadion, Antwerp | 10 May 2026

A solitary second-half strike from RC Sporting Charleroi was enough to claim a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Royal Antwerp at the Bosuilstadion. The result hands the visitors a crucial three points in the race for European qualification, while leaving Antwerp with work to do in the final weeks of the season.

Match Overview

The first half was a tactical chess match, with both sides canceling each other out in midfield. Royal Antwerp, buoyed by their home crowd, enjoyed the majority of possession but struggled to break down a well-organized Charleroi defense. The Zebras, as Charleroi are known, relied on quick counter-attacks, but neither goalkeeper was seriously tested before the interval.

Key Moment

The decisive moment arrived in the 68th minute. A swift move down the right flank saw Charleroi's winger beat his marker and deliver a low cross into the box. Antwerp's center-back failed to clear, and Adem Zorgane pounced to slot the ball past the helpless goalkeeper from close range. It was the Algerian international's fifth league goal of the season.

Tactical Story

Antwerp manager Jonas De Roeck introduced fresh legs in attack after falling behind, throwing on strikers in search of an equalizer. Despite a flurry of corners and a couple of half-chances, the Great Old could not find a way past the resolute Charleroi backline, marshaled by captain Stelios Andreou. The visitors held firm, absorbing pressure and seeing out five minutes of stoppage time with composure.

Standout Players

• Adem Zorgane (Charleroi) – The match-winner, tireless in midfield and clinical when it mattered.
• Jean Butez (Antwerp) – The home goalkeeper made two smart saves to keep his side in the contest.
• Joris Kayembe (Charleroi) – Solid defensive display and key interceptions in the final minutes.

Season Impact

The victory lifts Sporting Charleroi to sixth place in the Belgian Pro League standings, strengthening their bid for a top-six finish and a spot in the Championship Playoffs. For Royal Antwerp, the defeat leaves them in seventh, level on points with Eupen, and facing increased pressure in the race for European football.

Follow the latest Belgian Pro League results and standings for all the drama as the season reaches its climax.