Genk, Belgium, 29 August (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – KRC Genk delivered the KRC Genk response their supporters wanted by beating SK Beveren 4-0 at the Cegeka Arena on Friday. Goals from Rafiu Durosinmi, Junya Ito, Josué Ndenge Kongolo and Joris Kayembe secured three points and, crucially, a clean sheet after Genk surrendered a 4-1 lead in last week’s 4-4 draw with Royal Antwerp.
Why did Genk produce such a dominant response?
The difference was visible early. Genk played with greater control and punished Beveren quickly, with Durosinmi converting a ninth-minute penalty after Zakaria El Ouahdi was fouled. Ito doubled the advantage in the 19th minute before Kongolo made it 3-0 shortly before half-time.
That start prevented Beveren from settling into the contest. Although possession was relatively balanced, Genk created the clearer opportunities and limited their opponents to few meaningful chances.
The clean sheet was particularly significant after the collapse against Antwerp. Genk had been four goals ahead in that match before conceding three late goals, turning what appeared to be a comfortable victory into a 4-4 draw.
Friday’s KRC Genk response showed a side capable of managing a commanding advantage more effectively.
What problems will Beveren face after another heavy defeat?
For SK Beveren, the result exposed defensive problems that require attention. It was their second successive 4-0 league defeat after losing by the same scoreline against Zulte Waregem.
Coach Tim Bakens made three substitutions at half-time as Beveren attempted to change the match, but Genk remained in control. Kayembe added the fourth goal in the 74th minute to complete the scoring.
Beveren’s challenge is now to prevent consecutive heavy defeats from developing into a longer pattern. Their earlier 1-0 victory over Anderlecht demonstrated that the promoted club can compete at this level, but conceding eight goals without scoring across two matches highlights the scale of the defensive work ahead.
What will Genk and Beveren face next?
The KRC Genk response gives Jess Thorup’s team seven points from their opening four league fixtures and restores momentum following the disappointment in Antwerp.
Genk must now prove that Friday’s defensive discipline can be maintained rather than being a one-match correction.
Beveren, meanwhile, are due to face OH Leuven at home on 6 September. The fixture provides an opportunity to respond, but reducing defensive errors will be central to avoiding another difficult result.
