RSC Anderlecht hosted AZ Alkmaar on Thursday night for the first quarter-final match of the UEFA Europa Conference League. Two goals, from Amir Murillo and Majeed Ashimeru, ensured an excellent starting position for RSCA for the return match at the AFAS Stadium next Thursday.
The first chance of the match was for RSCA. Francis Amuzu accelerated down the flank and reached Islam Slimani, but he failed to score. RSCA started with a lot of energy, but the visitors gradually came back into the game. After a quarter of an hour, Anders Dreyer was able to shoot from a free kick, but Mathew Ryan managed to save. But the 1-0 would still fall in the first half. Amir Murillo headed in an excellent cross from Anders Dreyer. Some small chances for Lior Refaelov and Anders followed for the Mauves, while AZ did not manage to get a single shot on target in the first half. 1-0, a logical score at half-time, in a first half in which Brian Riemer's men had most of the ball possession.
After half-time, the Dutch stepped up the pressure. Milos Kerkez, Vangelis Pavlidis and Sven Mijnants had chances, but could not decide. And that lack of efficiency in finishing would cost Pascal Janssen's troops dearly. Twenty minutes before time, Majeed Ashimeru was able to shoot unstoppable from the edge of the penalty area after a nice action by Lior Refaelov and Francis Amuzu: 0-2. AZ tried to reduce the deficit, but a shot by Tijani Reijnders, among others, did not really trouble Bart Verbruggen. The last real chance for RSCA was a header by Kristian Arnstad, but Mathew Ryan was able to ensure that the score was not further extended. A deserved victory.
RSC Anderlecht |
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AZ Alkmaar |
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