Dender Upsets Louviere Centre in Belgian First Division A Opener
LA LOUVIÈRE, Belgium (Interstat) — Visiting Dender opened its season with a 1-0 upset victory over Louviere Centre in Belgian First Division A play on Monday.
The lone goal came from substitute Alireza Jahanbakhsh, who finished a team move in the second half at Easi Arena. His 73rd-minute strike was assisted by fellow substitute Bo De Kerf, one of eight different Dender players credited with a goal or an assist.
The result defied pregame projections, which heavily favored the hosts. Louviere Centre failed to capitalize on its chances as Dender’s defense held firm.
The match was a physical affair, with eight yellow cards issued. Dender’s Joël Ito received the first booking in the 4th minute. The victory gives Dender a winning start to both its league and overall campaign, while Louviere Centre begins the season with a loss.