Zulte Waregem secured a 2-1 victory over Genk in the opening match of the Jupiler Pro League Regular Season on August 9, 2026. The home side took the lead in the second half after conceding an early goal. The result gives Zulte Waregem three points from their season debut while Genk starts with nothing.
Genk opened the scoring in the 39th minute through R. Durosinmi, who was assisted by J. Ito. The visitors also saw D. Heymans receive a yellow card in the 42nd minute. Zulte Waregem responded with A. Ementa booked in the 52nd minute before the second half goals arrived.
M. Ake equalized for Zulte Waregem in the 82nd minute, and S. Ujka completed the comeback two minutes later with a goal assisted by A. Ementa. Genk made several substitutions including R. Durosinmi off in the 61st minute and Z. El Ouahdi in the 72nd minute. Zulte Waregem brought on I. Atrok in the 64th minute and T. Hedl in the 76th minute.
Genk controlled 62 percent of possession compared to Zulte Waregem's 38 percent and registered 98 attacks against 73. However, Zulte Waregem recorded five shots on target to Genk's three, with both teams firing four shots off target. Genk created two clear moments while Zulte Waregem registered none, and the visitors completed 533 successful passes against 286 for the hosts.
The final score leaves Zulte Waregem ahead on goal difference after the opening round. Genk's dominance in possession and passing did not translate into goals, as they finished with a negative result despite creating more chances. The match featured four yellow cards for Genk and one for Zulte Waregem, with no red cards issued.