RC Genk ensured their UEFA Europa League survival with a 2-0 victory over Dutch neighbours FC Utrecht on Thursday, in a match overshadowed by off-field turmoil.
The game’s start was delayed until 21:50 CET after a major security breach saw numerous unticketed Genk fans force their way into the away section, causing chaos in the stadium.
Despite the absence of their 1,400 official traveling supporters, Genk quickly took control, dominating possession in Utrecht’s half.
Belgian forward Aaron Bibout had an early opportunity but failed to convert, while Utrecht striker Sebastien Haller also came close, missing a clear chance from close range.
The hosts grew into the game as halftime approached, with Yoann Cathline and Can Bozdogan testing Genk goalkeeper Tobias Lawal repeatedly, but the score remained goalless.
The breakthrough came against the run of play when Zakaria El Ouahdi capitalized on a rare error by Utrecht keeper Jeroen Brouwer, firing in a long-range shot that deflected into the net.
The goal unsettled the Dutch side, who struggled to regain control and created only sporadic chances that Dani de Wit and Miguel Rodriguez failed to convert.
Any hopes of a Utrecht revival were extinguished in the 83rd minute when Genk were awarded a controversial penalty.
Daan Heymans stepped up to confidently convert, sealing the 2-0 win and cementing Genk’s place in the Europa League next round.
While Genk now head into their final League Phase clash against Malmo FF with the chance to finish in the top eight, Utrecht face elimination from European competition for the first time since 2011, ahead of their visit to Celtic next week.
