K.R.C. Genk experienced a particularly frustrating weekend. The Limburg side threw away a 1-4 lead in the final stages against Antwerp but failed to hold on. Due to the shared points at the Bosuil, Jess Thorup's team remains on 4 points out of 9. This is a disappointing start for the club currently ranked 9th in the Jupiler Pro League.
In this week's HLN Football Podcast, the panel dives deep into the causes of this collapse. "K.R.C. Genk has good players, but lacks the win-at-all mentality that Union possesses," notes legend Toby Alderweireld. According to journalist Frank Boeckx, the 2-4 scoreline actually paralyzed the squad. The good football they had played until then suddenly vanished. You don't win matches with just good footballers, Boeckx stated. During training, the five defenders often fail to outplay the five attackers because the latter are technically more gifted, making a good mix essential.
The dramatic defensive work was the direct catalyst for the opposition fans' comeback. It wasn't just because of the light penalty Genk conceded; the club swallowed four goals that were avoidable. It was simply too passive and the defensive discipline was not there. Alderweireld pointed out that the experienced players especially failed most. El Ouahdi was even sleeping in the 88th minute when the score was 3-4. These types of errors by the most experienced players make it extremely difficult for a trainer.
In recent years, it is frequently said that mentality is missing at K.R.C. Genk. Alderweireld emphasizes that this remains a problem where Union does not; they are not always the best players but have the right attitude. K.R.C. Genk has always had talent, but mentally they are not 100 percent winners. When things get tough, they do not provide what is required. On the pitch, everyone looked at each other during a cross while the defensive line stood too low and the keeper couldn't come.
A leader like Jan Vertonghen would make a huge difference in the center of the defense. At Anderlecht, you heard him screaming through the microphone to keep sharp, which activated everyone. Christian Burgess, who moved to Gent, could have helped Genk as he unconsciously drags everyone along through body language and communication. Boeckx believes the players need more of Dimitri de Condé's mentality and must sometimes tell the truth in the locker room. Despite the poor start and vulnerable defense, K.R.C. Genk does not plan to hit the market for new defenders. After Kevin's arrival, they trust the Smets-Kongolo duo and talents like Palacios and Mbaku.
Now K.R.C. Genk must start winning to play in Europe again. The focus is now on mental resilience for the next match at home against SK Beveren on August 28th.
