Anderlecht Women made a winning start in the UEFA EL W with a hard-earned 2-1 victory over Feyenoord Rotterdam Women. In a competitive European contest, the Belgian side used the energy of their home support and a strong second-half display to edge out the Dutch visitors.

Match overview

Feyenoord Women arrived with confidence and started brightly, keeping Anderlecht on the back foot for the opening exchanges. The Dutch side’s pressing forced several early errors, but they could not turn possession into a breakthrough. Anderlecht gradually grew into the match, and once they found their rhythm, they looked the more dangerous going forward.

Key moments

Anderlecht broke the deadlock midway through the first half with a move of real quality. A neat one-two on the edge of the box carved open the Feyenoord defence, and the finish was clinical. The visitors refused to wilt and equalised shortly after the restart with a powerful strike from outside the area.

The turning point came as the game entered the final quarter-hour. Anderlecht pushed higher up the pitch, and their persistence was rewarded when a cross from the right side was turned in at the near post. From that moment, the home side managed the match well, keeping Feyenoord at arm’s length to secure all three points.

Standout performers

• Anderlecht's forwards were lively throughout, causing problems with their movement and link-up play.
• The home goalkeeper made a crucial late save to preserve the lead.
• Feyenoord’s midfield controlled long stretches but lacked the final pass in the final third.

Impact on the group

This result gives Anderlecht Women a valuable early advantage in the UEFA EL W standings, while Feyenoord Rotterdam Women are left to recover points in their next fixture. The margin of victory could prove significant in a tightly contested group.