Francs Borains edged out RWDM Brussels 2-1 in an entertaining international club friendly on Sunday night, with both sides using the fixture to fine-tune their squads ahead of the upcoming competitive season. The match, played behind closed doors at the home venue, was a lively affair that produced three goals, several strong challenges, and plenty of positive performances from younger players looking to impress their coaches.

Francs Borains took control early and looked the sharper of the two teams in the opening quarter of an hour, but RWDM Brussels grew into the contest and enjoyed their best spell either side of half-time. The result leaves both coaching staffs with plenty of observations to work on as the pre-season calendar moves forward.

Match Overview

As is often the case in friendly encounters, both teams rotated heavily throughout the match, with regular intervals allowing players to build match fitness without the intensity of league competition. Francs Borains started brightly and pressed high, forcing RWDM into early mistakes. Their reward came inside the first 20 minutes when a well-worked move was finished sharply from the edge of the area.

RWDM responded well to going behind, adjusting their shape and finding more joy down the wings. They created several decent chances before levelling just after the hour mark, but Francs Borains reasserted their authority late on, scoring the decisive goal in the closing stages to claim the bragging rights.

Key Moments

• 17' – Francs Borains opener: A smooth exchange on the edge of the box ended with a curling effort that beat the RWDM goalkeeper.
• 61' – RWDM equaliser: A cross from the right was met with a firm header that gave the home goalkeeper no chance.
• 84' – Francs Borains winner: A counter-attack caught RWDM stretched, and a composed finish sealed the victory.

Tactical Observations

Francs Borains set up in a 3-5-2 formation, looking to dominate midfield and supply their two strikers with quick service. Their wing-backs were particularly effective, pushing forward at every opportunity and providing width against a narrow RWDM midfield.

RWDM Brussels, meanwhile, appeared to be experimenting with a 4-3-3, placing emphasis on possession and playing through the thirds. They showed flashes of quality, particularly when shifting the ball quickly between the lines, but their final-third decision-making was often rushed. The friendly provided a useful test for both sides in different phases of play.

Standout Performances

For the home side, the young attacking midfielder was the standout player, displaying a willingness to drive at defenders and creating both of the goals with intelligent movement. His energy dropped in the second half, but his overall contribution was enough to catch the eye.

RWDM's defensive midfielder put in a solid shift, breaking up play and starting attacks with simple, efficient passing. The visitors also saw encouraging signs from a summer signing who came on in the second half and looked sharp in possession.

Looking Ahead

For Francs Borains, this win provides a welcome confidence boost as they finalise their preparations. The coaching staff will be pleased with the attacking intent shown, especially the way the team pressed from the front and created chances against a side from a higher division.

RWDM Brussels, for their part, will treat the result as a minor inconvenience relative to the bigger picture. The match served its purpose in giving minutes to the entire squad, and the performance offered clarity on the areas that still need improvement before competitive fixtures begin. Both clubs will continue their pre-season schedules with positive takeaways from a thoroughly competitive friendly.