Antwerp staged a 4-4 comeback against Genk on 23 August 2026. The turnaround happened in the 80th minute, with four goals in eight minutes. It was a spectacle that turned the Bosuil into a madhouse.
Valencia’s opening goal and stomach pains
At the 15th minute Ecuadorian Anthony Valencia scored the first goal. He barely cheered, ran back to his own half without fatigue, and was passed by Yuto Tsunashima and Rein Van Helden. Coach Marvin Compper said Valencia suffered from stomach pains, so he was substituted after the first half. Doctors gave him medication and he felt better.
Valencia’s contract expires after this season. Antwerp wants to sell him this summer; interest will grow thanks to his three goals in the last two matches. The club expects a transfer of more than ten million euros in cash.
Ahoka’s transfer rumor to Sunderland
A week earlier, top-talent Jules Ahoka had not considered a move. Sunderland knocked on the door; the 20-year-old Congolese could multiply his salary sixteen-fold. Antwerp would receive more than ten million euros. Ahoka was, however, missed in the match, which weakened the club’s defensive stability.
Youthful squad and substitutes
Antwerp fielded a youthful lineup: Van Gelder (17), Daniel Mejia (19), Snayder Porozo (19) and Modibo Fofana (18) were substitutes. Additionally, Xander Dierckx (17), Luis Narh (18) and Luca Schelfhout (18) were active. The coach emphasized that the young squad made the comeback possible.
Coach Compper’s reaction
Compper said: "We can be proud of this young team. Many youngsters were on the field, but the grit sparked from them." He added that the energy in the stadium when he scored 2-4 pushed the team forward.
End of the match
The game ended 4-4. Antwerp fans were stunned, while Genk felt fear at the unexpected recovery. It was an unseen comeback that turned the Bosuil into a madhouse.
