Anderlecht edged past NEC Nijmegen 3-2 in an entertaining International Club Friendly on the evening of July 11, 2026. The Belgian side showed their quality in attack but were made to work hard by a persistent NEC side who battled back twice.

Match Overview

Played at a neutral training ground, the match featured end-to-end action from kick-off. Anderlecht dominated possession in the first half but NEC’s counter-attacking threat was ever-present. The hosts opened the scoring early, only for NEC to level shortly after. A second Anderlecht goal restored the lead before halftime, but again Nijmegen equalised after the break. A late strike from an Anderlecht substitute finally decided the contest.

Key Moments

• 1-0 (12’): Quick passing on the edge of the area left the NEC defence flat-footed; a low finish into the corner.
• 1-1 (25’): A long ball over the top caught Anderlecht’s high line, and the forward slotted past the keeper.
• 2-1 (40’): A well-struck volley from a half-cleared corner restored Anderlecht’s advantage.
• 2-2 (58’): NEC’s midfielder smashed home from 20 yards after a cutback.
• 3-2 (73’): A substitute forward latched onto a through ball and finished clinically.

Standout Players

Anderlecht’s creative midfielder pulled the strings, while their defence showed occasional vulnerability. NEC’s two goalscorers impressed with their composure. The match highlighted Anderlecht’s attacking depth but also defensive issues to address before the season starts.