Roda JC 1–0 Beerschot Wilrijk
International Club Friendly | Date: 17 July 2026, 18:30

Match Overview

Roda JC kicked off their 2026 pre-season campaign with a hard-fought 1–0 victory over Belgian side Beerschot Wilrijk at the Parkstad Limburg Stadion. The only goal of the game came in the first half, as the Dutch Eerste Divisie outfit showed defensive resilience to keep a clean sheet against their more experienced opponents.

Key Moments

• 15' – Goal: Roda JC took the lead through a well-worked set piece. Midfielder Thijs van der Werff headed home from a corner, giving the home side an early advantage.
• 38' – Beerschot chance: The Belgian side nearly equalised when forward Jordy Gillekens struck the crossbar from 20 yards out.
• 62' – Missed penalty: Roda JC were awarded a spot kick but Dylan Vente saw his effort saved by Beerschot goalkeeper Mike Vanhamel.

Tactical Story

Roda JC manager Bas Sibum set out a compact 4‑4‑2 formation, aiming to absorb pressure and hit on the counter. The plan worked well, as Beerschot dominated possession (62%) but struggled to break down a well‑organised defence. The home side pressed high in midfield, forcing turnovers and creating several half‑chances.

Beerschot, under new coach Dirk Heylen, looked to build from the back but lacked a cutting edge in the final third. Their best spell came after the hour mark, but Roda goalkeeper Joey Houben stood firm, making three key saves in the closing stages.

Standout Players

• Thijs van der Werff (Roda JC): Scored the winner and was a commanding presence in the air defensively.
• Mike Vanhamel (Beerschot): Made several important saves to keep the scoreline respectable, including that penalty stop.
• Joey Houben (Roda JC): The 21‑year‑old goalkeeper kept a clean sheet in his first pre‑season start.

Season Impact

This result gives Roda JC a confidence boost ahead of their Eerste Divisie campaign, which kicks off in early August. For Beerschot, the friendly serves as a useful fitness exercise ahead of their Challenge Pro League season. Both teams will continue their pre‑season schedules next week.