KV Kortrijk survived a major scare in the Belgian Cup, defeating KSK Heist on penalties after a thrilling 2-2 draw on September 27, 2026. The match, played in front of a raucous crowd, saw the underdogs twice take the lead before Kortrijk forced a shootout and eventually won 4-3.

Match Overview

KSK Heist, playing at home, started brightly and took a shock lead in the 18th minute when striker Dries Vermeulen pounced on a defensive mistake. Kortrijk, the higher-ranked side, responded well and equalised in the 39th minute through a composed finish from Ivan Kovac. The second half followed a similar pattern: Heist retook the lead in the 61st minute with a stunning free-kick from Jasper Van Damme, only for Kortrijk to level again in the 84th minute via a header from Filip Stojanovic. Neither side could find a winner in extra time, sending the tie to a penalty shootout.

Key Moments

• 18' – Dries Vermeulen gives Heist a surprise lead.
• 39' – Ivan Kovac equalises for Kortrijk with a low strike.
• 61' – Jasper Van Damme curls in a free-kick to restore Heist's lead.
• 84' – Filip Stojanovic heads home to force extra time.
• Penalties – Kortrijk score all four of their spot-kicks, while Heist miss their third, handing Kortrijk a 4-3 shootout win.

Tactical Story

Heist set up in a disciplined 5-3-2 formation, looking to absorb pressure and hit on the break. Their plan worked for long periods, with Kortrijk struggling to break down a packed defence. However, Kortrijk's superior fitness and technical ability eventually told, especially in extra time when Heist's players began to tire. Kortrijk's manager switched to a more attacking 4-3-3 in the second half, which helped them create more chances.

Standout Players

Kortrijk's goalkeeper Marko Ilic was the hero of the shootout, saving Heist's third penalty and allowing his team to advance. Ivan Kovac was also influential, scoring one and assisting another. For Heist, Dries Vermeulen and Jasper Van Damme were outstanding, but their efforts ended in heartbreak.

What It Means

KV Kortrijk avoid a potential upset and move into the next round of the Belgian Cup, keeping their hopes of a deep cup run alive. For KSK Heist, the defeat is a bitter pill to swallow, but they can take pride in pushing a professional side all the way. The attendance of 2,500 fans created a fantastic cup atmosphere, and the match will be remembered for its drama and penalty shootout tension.