Genk’s early surge forces Kortrijk to climb a mountain after Heymans’ volley

On Saturday, 10 October 2026, KRC Genk hosted KV Kortrijk in a Jupiler Pro League clash that turned into a mountain‑climbing task for the visitors after Daan Heymans opened the scoring with a superb volley inside the first minute. The early strike forced Kortrijk to chase the lead from the 3‑minute mark.

Early dominance and the opening volley

Heymans’ strike arrived in the third minute, a half‑volley that curled past the Kortrijk keeper and gave KRC Genk a 1‑0 lead. The GOAL was celebrated on the LIVE broadcast, with commentators noting the youngster’s composure. The early advantage set the tone for the rest of the first half. The strike came from a low cross that Heymans met with a half‑volley, leaving the defence scrambling.

Set‑piece mishap and disciplinary note

Thirteen minutes in, Harrison Murray‑Campbell diverted a cross into his own net, handing Genk a comfortable 2‑0 cushion. The Own goal was recorded as an unfortunate mishap for Kortrijk, who had been pressing for an equaliser. Two minutes later Shandre Campbell received a Geel card for a late challenge, further dimming Kortrijk’s hopes. The setback halted Kortrijk’s momentum and forced them to adopt a more defensive shape.

Jess Thorup, Genk’s coach, stressed the importance of the result, saying, “We are still unbeaten at home and this is a must‑win to stay near the top of the table.” He added that the points keep Genk in contention for European spots, including the Champions League, Europa League and Conference League. Thorup also reminded his squad that the league leaders sit just a few points ahead, making every home win crucial.

Daniel Beichler, Kortrijk’s manager, highlighted the debut of 17‑year‑old midfielder Anthony Philips, noting, “I have seen his qualities in training and I am convinced he has a bright future.” He also mentioned that Philips earned his first start in the Voor of the match, reflecting the club’s focus on youth development. Philips, who operates as a central midfielder, will now look to cement his place in the starting eleven.

The fixture marked the resumption of the Belgian competition after a long interland break, with the Jupiler Pro League returning alongside the Challenger Pro League. The weekend’s programme also featured updates from other sports, including Tennis, Formule 1 and a Meer Voetbal segment, all streamed LIVE on the official platform, while the clubs also eye places in the Champions League, Europa League and Conference League. Fans can follow the full schedule on the Programma, which lists upcoming fixtures for both the Pro and Challenger divisions.

Genk’s swift climb up the scoreboard forced Kortrijk into a mountain‑climbing chase that they could not complete, underscoring the home side’s early intensity and the visitors’ need to regroup ahead of their next league encounter. The contrast between Genk’s early ascendancy and Kortrijk’s uphill battle highlights the fine margins that define the Jupiler Pro League this season.