Standard stun champions Bruges

Standard Liège secured a surprise 1-0 victory over defending champions Club Brugge at Sclessin, thanks to a solitary goal from Marko Bulat.

A resolute defensive performance and a touch of clinical finishing saw the Rouches claim a memorable win and send the Sclessin stadium into raptures.

Following a behind-closed-doors friendly against Norwich and their fan day, Sclessin reopened its gates to the general public on Sunday for Standard’s second Pro League match of the season against Club Brugge. Grejohn Kyei led the line for the hosts, replacing Benjdida, while Club Brugge made four changes, with Nielsen, Jashari, Siquet, and Skoras coming into the side.

Croatian duo shine as Bruges struggle

As they had done the previous week against Genk, Standard would have been content with a point against the champions. However, playing at home in front of 19,873 fans, the Matricule 16 were keen to improve on their attacking play and secure a victory.

The first half was fairly even. Brugge enjoyed more possession but lacked rhythm and precision. Standard were well-organized defensively, with Bosko Sutalo particularly impressive. The Croatian defender thwarted several attacks from Tzolis and Skoras, Brugge’s main threats.

At the other end, Standard’s other Croatian signing, Marko Bulat, was causing problems. He struck the crossbar with a direct corner (33rd minute) and then forced a good save from Mignolet with a free-kick shortly afterwards. Just before half-time, he hit the post again with a long-range effort (38th minute). Despite Brugge’s dominance of possession, it was Standard who had created the better chances.

Club Brugge seemed to up the tempo at the start of the second half, with Nielsen and Vanaken both having opportunities. However, Standard were struggling to get out of their half and the visitors were laying siege to the home goal.

Just when it seemed like Standard were fading, the duo of Fossey and Bulat combined to break the deadlock. The American burst down the right flank and crossed for the Croatian, who finished expertly past Mignolet to send Sclessin into delirium (1-0, 64th minute).

The final quarter of the game followed a similar pattern. Brugge pushed for an equalizer but Standard held firm, buoyed by the vociferous support of their fans. Despite late introductions for Sotiris Alexandropoulos and Ferran Jutgla, the visitors were unable to find a way through.

Standard’s victory over the champions was a significant result and will give them a huge boost of confidence going forward. With four points from their opening two games, few would have predicted such a strong start to the season for the Rouches.