Zulte-Waregem 4–3 Rakow Czestochowa
International Club Friendly – 8 July 2026, 17:30

In a thrilling pre‑season encounter, Belgian side Zulte-Waregem edged out Polish champions Rakow Czestochowa 4–3 in an International Club Friendly on 8 July 2026. The game featured seven goals, several lead changes, and plenty of entertainment for the neutral spectator.

Match Overview

Rakow started strongly and took an early lead, but Zulte-Waregem responded with three goals before half‑time to turn the match on its head. The second half saw two more goals from each side, with the home team holding on for a narrow victory. The open, attacking nature of the friendly was typical of early pre‑season fixtures where defensive sharpness often lags behind fitness.

Key Moments

• 12' – Goal (0-1): Rakow's striker finished clinically after a defensive lapse.
• 24' – Goal (1-1): A long‑range effort from Zulte-Waregem's midfielder sailed into the top corner.
• 34' – Goal (2-1): A quick break saw the home side take the lead through a composed finish.
• 43' – Goal (3-1): A penalty was awarded and converted, giving Zulte a two‑goal cushion.
• 55' – Goal (3-2): Rakow scored from a corner, heading in at the near post.
• 71' – Goal (4-2): Zulte-Waregem restored their two‑goal advantage with a volley inside the box.
• 84' – Goal (4-3): Rakow set up a tense finish with a powerful strike from outside the area.

Tactical Story

Both coaches used the match to test different formations. Zulte-Waregem switched between a 3‑5‑2 and a 4‑4‑2, while Rakow stuck largely to a 4‑3‑3. The high tempo and frequent mistakes in possession led to a chaotic but entertaining game. Zulte's ability to score quickly after falling behind proved decisive.

Standout Performers

• Zulte-Waregem's right winger: Provided two assists and was a constant threat with his dribbling.
• Rakow's centre‑forward: Scored twice and looked sharp despite the loss.

Season Context

For Zulte-Waregem, this friendly represents an encouraging start to their pre‑season programme ahead of the Belgian Pro League campaign. Rakow Czestochowa, who recently won the Polish Ekstraklasa title, will be pleased with their attacking output but will need to address defensive vulnerabilities before competitive matches resume.