Antwerp secured a 1‑1 draw against champions PSV on July 6, 2026, earning a point in the season's opening match. The goals came in the second half, with Alassane Pléa scoring for PSV before Milan Vanaken equalised with a header. The result keeps the Red Lions on a solid start while PSV continues searching for a regular midfielder.

How did the match unfold?

The first half was dominated by PSV, who fielded a 70‑minute lineup without Ruben van Bommel and Mauro Junior. Antwerp held firm but missed chances. In the second half Pléa, recently back from knee surgery, came on and immediately put pressure. He scored at the 55‑minute mark, but Vanaken headed level at 68 minutes. Subsequent substitutions did not change the 1‑1 scoreline.

Which injuries and returns mattered?

PSV missed, besides their ten World Cup players, Van Bommel, who trained separately after a September knee operation. Mauro Junior was out due to an injury suffered at the end of the championship season. Antwerp had no major absentees; the starting XI remained largely unchanged, giving coach Mark van Bommel confidence for the weeks ahead.

What does this mean for Antwerp's future?

The point leaves Antwerp in a respectable second place after the opening round. With a recent form of 2W-2D-1L (a two‑game winning streak) and a fresh 2‑0 victory over KVC Westerlo on May 23, 2026, the club appears to be on a good trajectory. The manager will now look to strengthen the back line, as a central defender tops the transfer wishlist.

Who stood out on the pitch?

Milan Vanaken demonstrated why he is a staple in midfield, making the decisive movement that led to the equaliser. For PSV, Alassane Pléa caught the eye; he impressed in training and delivered a goal straight away. Young talent Boet Mulders, grandson of former international Eef Mulders, earned a chance at left‑back in the first half.

The match showed Antwerp can compete with the league's elite. With the coming weeks in focus, the club will aim to extend its winning run and plug defensive gaps.