Play-offs: Anderlecht knocked out of the title race

Anderlecht can now really forget the title because of yesterday's defeat against Standard. After just one play-off game, the gap between Anderlecht and Standard is now 8 points.


Anderlecht started once again in a defensive line-up with just one striker. The first half hour, the Mauves were overclassed by a motivated Standard. The home side created several chances, especially via Mpoku. After just 20 minutes of play, the Rouches opened the score: Mehdi Carcela was faster than Deschacht and pushed the ball over Proto in the goal on a good center of Mpoku. After half an hour, Anderlecht fought back: Pollet was too surprised when he received the ball in the box. Later on, Gillet missed the target with a volley.

Mitrovic came into play at the beginning of the second half and Anderlecht finally thought offensively. Later on, also Cyriac replaced Pollet. The game was pleasant to follow with chances on both sides, but especially Anderlecht deserved a goal: Cyriac appeared alone in front of the goal, but defender Ronnie Stam saved. Najar's effort was pushed out of the goal by Kawashima. Mbemba's header went over.

On the counter attack, Cissé came close to doubling the lead, but he missed. At the end of the match, Carcela got a deserved red card after a harsh tackle on Van den Borre. The scoreline remained unchanged and Anderlecht are now definitely knocked out of the title race. The second place remains possible with a victory over Bruges next weekend.