St.Truiden contra Anderlecht — Belgian Pro League

**St.Truiden 2-0 Anderlecht**

**Playing Style:** St.Truiden played a more structured and disciplined game, with a strong emphasis on possession and defensive organization. They controlled the majority of the game, with 54% possession and a high number of passes (483) and accurate passes (84%). Their play was focused on maintaining pressure in the opponent’s half, evidenced by 198 passes in the opposition half and a high touch rate inside the box (32 vs 16). Anderlecht, on the other hand, had more shots (19 vs 16) and corners (7 vs 4), suggesting a more direct and attacking approach, but their chances were less effective overall.

**Strengths and Weaknesses:** St.Truiden’s strengths lay in their ball control, with superior passing accuracy, more successful dribbles, and a higher number of successful crosses and interceptions. They also dominated in aerial and ground duels, winning 50 vs 40 and 37 vs 31 respectively. Their defensive actions were also more frequent (76 vs 48), and they were more effective in preventing dangerous chances, with a higher xGOT prevented (0.98 vs 0.67). However, they struggled to convert their big chances, with only 1 out of 2 converted (50%), which limited their scoring efficiency.

Anderlecht had more shots on target (5 vs 7) and a higher box entry to shot rate (119 vs 50), indicating a more clinical approach when in the box. However, they were less effective in possession, with fewer passes (400) and lower accuracy (78%). Their defensive actions were fewer (48 vs 76), and they conceded more shots on target (26 vs 44), suggesting vulnerabilities in their defensive structure.

**Conclusion:** Despite Anderlecht having more shots and corners, St.Truiden’s superior control of the game, particularly in possession and defensive actions, allowed them to dominate the match. Their ability to win duels and intercept passes limited Anderlecht’s chances, while their own chances, though fewer, were more effective (50% conversion rate). Anderlecht’s failure to convert their big chances (0% conversion) was a key factor in the final score. St.Truiden’s disciplined and structured approach, combined with better defensive efficiency, secured the 2-0 result.