KV Mechelen kicked off their 2026 preseason campaign with a composed 2-0 victory over Belgian lower‑league side Kermt Hasselt in an International Club Friendly at their training complex on 11 July 2026. The result provided head coach Steven Defour with a solid platform to assess his squad’s fitness and tactical cohesion ahead of the upcoming Jupiler Pro League season.

Match Overview

Played under warm summer conditions, the friendly allowed Mechelen to dominate possession from the outset. The Malinwa controlled the midfield through a mix of first‑team regulars and academy prospects, while Kermt Hasselt defended resolutely but struggled to create meaningful chances against the hosts’ organised backline.

Key Moments

• 24th minute: KV Mechelen broke the deadlock when winger Rob Schoofs cut inside from the right flank and fired a low drive into the far corner, giving the goalkeeper no chance.
• 58th minute: Substitute striker Lion Lauberbach doubled the lead with a clinical finish after a well‑worked move involving Belgian youth international Isaac Asante.
• 70th minute onwards: Mechelen rotated heavily, giving minutes to fringe players, while Kermt Hasselt’s best chance came from a free‑kick that was tipped over by backup goalkeeper Gaëtan Coucke.

Tactical Story

Defour set up his side in a fluid 4‑3‑3 system, encouraging full‑backs to push high and overload the flanks. Kermt Hasselt, likely using the fixture as preparation for their own season in the Belgian National Division 1, defended in a compact 5‑4‑1 block and attempted to hit on the counter. However, Mechelen’s superior technical quality and pressing forced several turnovers in dangerous areas.

Standout Players

• Rob Schoofs (KV Mechelen): The experienced Belgian winger looked sharp, scoring the opener and providing a constant threat down the right side.
• Lion Lauberbach (KV Mechelen): The German striker came off the bench to seal the win with a composed finish, underlining his value as a target man.
• Zinho Vanheusden (KV Mechelen): The centre‑back, on loan from Inter Milan, commanded the defence with strong aerial duels and intelligent distribution.

Season Impact

For KV Mechelen, this friendly marks the beginning of a series of pre‑season tests that will include matches against stronger opposition. The clean sheet and controlled performance offer early encouragement as they aim to improve on their mid‑table finish in the Belgian top flight. Kermt Hasselt will take positives from the experience, having avoided a heavier defeat while gaining valuable minutes against professional opposition.