Union Saint-Gilloise secured their second Belgian Cup triumph in three seasons with a pulsating 3-1 victory over Anderlecht after extra time in the Brussels derby final on Thursday. The win not only added another trophy to an increasingly crowded cabinet but also kept alive their hopes of a historic league and cup double. For Anderlecht, it marked a second successive defeat in the competition’s showpiece game, deepening the sense of disappointment at the neighboring club.
The encounter at the King Baudouin Stadium was a cagey affair for long stretches, with both sides struggling to create clear openings in a tense, tactical battle. Regulation time appeared destined to end in stalemate until the 74th minute, when USG broke the deadlock with a clinical finish. The goal injected urgency into the contest, and seven minutes later, the same side doubled their advantage, seemingly putting the result beyond doubt. However, Anderlecht rallied and pulled one back, forcing the match into an additional 30 minutes.
Extra time proved to be the stage for Union’s decisive blow. Mohammed Fuseini struck in the 95th minute to restore a two-goal cushion, and Kevin Rodrigues added a fourth for good measure in the 100th minute, extinguishing any lingering Anderlecht resistance. The rapid succession of goals underlined USG’s depth and their ability to seize key moments in high-pressure situations.
This latest success continues a remarkable period for the club from the Saint-Gilles district. Having already lifted the Belgian Cup in 2024 and then surprisingly claimed the league title in 2025, Union have now added another piece of domestic silverware. Their transformation from second-tier regulars to perennial contenders under the ownership of Brighton & Hove Albion chairman Tony Bloom has been one of European football’s most compelling stories. The data-informed recruitment and a clear tactical identity have turned them into a formidable force.
Anderlecht, by contrast, are left to reflect on what might have been. This final defeat follows their loss to Club Brugge in last season’s decider, meaning they have fallen at the final hurdle in consecutive campaigns. Despite a talented squad and passionate support, the once-dominant force in Belgian football has struggled to convert cup runs into trophies and now must watch their local rivals celebrate once more.
The victory keeps alive the possibility of a domestic double for Union Saint-Gilloise, a feat not achieved in Belgium since Royal Antwerp managed it in 2023. Since that Antwerp triumph, the major prizes have been split between USG and Brugge: one winning the cup while the other claimed the league, in an alternating pattern. Should Union go on to secure the championship this term, they would break that cycle and firmly establish themselves as the pre-eminent club in the country.
The implications for Belgian football are significant. Union’s sustained success challenges the traditional hierarchy and demonstrates that smart management can compete with, and even surpass, historic institutions. Their story serves as an inspiration for smaller clubs across the continent. Meanwhile, the rivalry with Anderlecht has taken on new meaning, with the balance of power shifting decisively toward the suburb of Saint-Gilles.
As the season enters its decisive phase, the Cup triumph provides a major psychological boost. The team’s ability to perform under pressure in extra time suggests a resilience that will be crucial in the title run-in. Coach Sébastien Pocognoli, who has continued the fine work of his predecessors, can now turn his full attention to the league campaign with renewed confidence.
The party in the stands reflected the deep connection between the club and its supporters, who have witnessed a golden era unfold. From near-extinction to the summit of Belgian football, Union Saint-Gilloise’s journey is a testament to vision and perseverance. With more matches to play and history to chase, the celebrations are likely to continue.
Based on reporting from L'Equipe.