Sikan’s near‑goal fuels Anderlecht’s Europa League edge

Anderlecht are defending a 0‑1 advantage in the third qualifying round of the Europa League against Griekse PAOK, and a superb free‑kick from Sikan rattled the cross‑bar, leaving the Belgian side on the brink of a two‑goal lead.

Qualification certainty and broadcast details

With the current score, the paars‑wit side is certain of Europees football at least until the winter months. The match can be followed live on VTM2 and VTM GO, giving Belgian fans full access to the action.

Sikan’s free‑kick and earlier exploits

Sikan’s free‑kick, struck with great feeling, flew over the wall and struck the deklat, a missed chance that deserved a goal. Earlier, Tegen Hammarby he scored, showing his knack for finding the net. A good combination via N'Diaye and Nga Kana also created chances, though Llansana’s 20‑metre effort went wide.

Anderlecht reacted after PAOK equalised to 1‑1, with Llansana threatening to restore the lead by cutting inside and shooting centrally. Taison delivered a sharp cross toward the second post, where Zivkovic headed the ball into the net, confirming PAOK’s resilience.

PAOK showed quality football, with Zivkovic delivering dangerous balls and Mythou heading a corner over the bar. The Greek side combined well, but N'Diaye and Biancone intervened to protect Anderlecht’s defence.

After Pétrot’s opening goal, Anderlecht allowed PAOK possession, waiting for a counter‑attack. The referee paused the game for a drink break due to the high temperatures, underscoring the match’s intensity.

Anderlecht’s early 1‑0 lead was deserved, with Biancone heading from a corner and PAOK keeper Pavlenka initially saving before mishandling a close‑range shot from Pétrot. The bonus of two goals now puts the club in a strong position as the Europa League play‑offs loom.

Fans can set as their Google-favorietZo to stay updated. Jérémy Taravel and Antoine Sibierski have highlighted Giulian Biancone as the new boss of the Anderlecht defence, signalling confidence in the back line as the campaign progresses.