Antwerp HubAntwerp gives Niels Devalckeneer chance as number 1 after debut against Westerlo. Devalckeneer kept a clean sheet and Antwerp saved 50,000 euros.
What happened?
Niels Devalckeneer made his debut for Antwerp against Westerlo and kept a clean sheet. This meant that Antwerp saved 50,000 euros, because Taishi Nozawa would receive a bonus of 50,000 euros if he would achieve his tenth clean sheet against Westerlo.
Why is this important for Antwerp?
Interim coach Faris Haroun confirmed that the idea to give Devalckeneer his debut came from goalkeeper coach Brian Vandenbussche. Vandenbussche worked closely with Devalckeneer and saw him make huge strides in the last few years.
What comes next?
Antwerp believes in Devalckeneer and thinks that he can become the number 1 next season. Earlier this year, his contract was extended until mid-2028, with an option to continue together after that.
| Season | Clean sheets |
|---|---|
| 2022-2023 | 5 |
| 2023-2024 | 10 |
Devalckeneer made the switch from Lierse to Antwerp in 2018. He had to work seriously on his footwork, but under the guidance of Vandenbussche, he grew quickly.
What does this mean for the future of Antwerp?
Everything will depend on a possible departure of Nozawa. In his first season at the Bosuil, he ensured that Antwerp did not sink even deeper into the ice. Think of his performance on the field of La Louvière, or last week in Genk, where the number of his saves was impossible to keep track of.
