Fighting to the last minute! Fighting to the last minute, but Union Vrede lose to experienced ZVC Rookies AffligemFighting to the last minute!

Union Vrede FC's futsal team played another match in the Belgian competitions, this time against ZVC Rookies Affligem. Despite a strong performance and plenty of effort, the match ended in a 4:1 defeat. Even so, the encounter showed many positives for the future of the young club.

Key absentees and tactical choices

Even before kick-off it was clear that Union Vrede FC would be struggling with personnel issues. Georgi Iliev, who is preparing for his wedding, could not take part, and new signings Enzo and Yasin were also missing. Captain Mario Yosifov played despite back pain and showed great dedication, while Taner Mahmoud, Mahmoud Mahmoud , Erkal Alish and Berkant were absent to save their energy for tomorrow's football match (11-a-side).

Despite these absences, Union Vrede FC started with a high press and plenty of possession. The team controlled the game and created the first serious chances.

A strong start, but the home side's efficiency decides the first half

The home side's experience proved crucial, however. After a quick counter-attack, ZVC Rookies Affligem opened the scoring, after which Union Vrede attacked even more aggressively. The team dominated possession and kept searching for openings in the opponents' compact defence. A mistake in attack led to another dangerous situation in front of our goal, but goalkeeper Y. Yusein made a superb save and kept us in the game. Up to half-time, the Union Vrede players had several big chances, but the finishing left something to be desired. The crossbar and post were repeatedly the ZVC Rookies Affligem keeper's best friends, and the deserved equaliser never came. The first half eventually ended with the home side 1:0 up.

Second half – chances for Union Vrede, but the finishing is missing

After the break, Union Vrede FC came out with even more attacking intent, determined to wipe out the deficit. Despite a large number of shots and plenty of pressure, the ball simply would not go in. The home goalkeeper and, once again, the woodwork kept the equaliser at bay. ZVC Rookies Affligem remained extremely clinical. With a quick attack they extended their lead to 2:0, making Union Vrede's task even harder. Still, the team did not give up and kept attacking. Union Vrede FC eventually pulled a goal back, keeping their hopes alive. The home side responded quickly, however, and restored the margin, once again taking a comfortable lead. In the last 3-4 minutes, ZVC Rookies Affligem scored once more to settle the match for good. Final score: 4:1.

Positives: Union Vrede FC's first real futsal moments

Despite the defeat, Union Vrede FC can be pleased with certain aspects of their play. For the first time this season, the team showed genuine futsal elements – major progress for a club that has existed for only six months and whose players have little experience in the discipline. The club's board is looking ahead with ambition and aims to build a stable foundation and move up to higher divisions in the future. This will be achieved through targeted transfers from the Balkans. For now, the focus is on gaining experience and match rhythm. The rest will follow with hard work, discipline and perseverance!

Stay tuned to Union Vrede FC for more news and upcoming matches!