

VVV Venlo suffered a narrow 3-2 defeat against KAS Eupen in an International Club Friendly on August 2, 2026, with the match offering an end-to-end spectacle and plenty of goals for the neutral observer.
In a game that featured strong attacking play from both sides, KAS Eupen edged a five-goal thriller on Dutch soil. The Belgian visitors showed clinical finishing, while VVV Venlo demonstrated plenty of spirit but was ultimately undone by defensive mistakes during key moments of the contest.
An open game with momentum swings
The friendly was played at a high tempo, with both teams pushing forward and creating chances. VVV Venlo twice found themselves level after falling behind, but KAS Eupen’s extra quality in the final third proved decisive. Pre-season matches often lack intensity, but this one had a competitive edge from start to finish.
Timeline of goals
- KAS Eupen opened the scoring early, breaking down the VVV defence with swift passing.
- VVV Venlo equalized moments later, converting a well-worked move.
- The visitors restored their lead before half-time with a powerful strike from distance.
- VVV Venlo again responded after the interval, setting up a tense finale.
- KAS Eupen secured the win with a late goal, capitalizing on a counter-attack.
What the result means
For VVV Venlo, the defeat highlights areas that need tightening before the competitive season begins, particularly their transition defence. KAS Eupen, on the other hand, will be encouraged by their attacking output and ability to score three times away from home. Both sides used the friendly to test combinations and give valuable minutes to squad players.
Although results in friendlies carry little weight, the 3-2 scoreline will give KAS Eupen confidence while reminding VVV Venlo of the standards required in the season ahead.