So today I got to witness the Union Saint-Gilloise vs Anderlecht clash live at the stadium. Woke up early feeling that familiar matchday buzz. Dug through my closet for that slightly faded Union scarf my buddy gave me last season.
Getting There
Hopped on the tram around 3 PM, immediately spotted other fans wearing purple – instant camaraderie. Could feel the energy building as we got closer to Stade Joseph Marien. Street vendors were already grilling sausages, that smoky smell mixing with excited chatter.
Pre-Match Vibes
Grabbed a lukewarm beer from this sketchy kiosk near Gate 4. Watched supporters trading insults in that playful football way:
- Young Anderlecht fans banging drums too early
- Old-timer Union supporters shaking their heads
- Police horses looking bored behind barriers
The concrete steps felt cold when I found my seat, but atmosphere heated up fast.
The Game Unfolds
First half was pure chaos:
Union came out swinging like madmen. That pressing tactic had Anderlecht defenders panicking – saw one guy just boot the ball into touch like he forgot how to play. When Teuma scored from that deflected free kick, my section exploded. Spilled half my beer hugging some random bald dude next to me.
Second half twist:
Anderlecht brought on Silva and everything changed. Union got pinned back deeper and deeper. That equalizer felt inevitable – Amuzu’s shot took three deflections before trickling in. Final 15 minutes were torture. Both teams could’ve nicked it. Ref blew whistle and my voice was already gone.
Post-Match Feels
Staggered out smelling like beer and damp grass. Kept replaying Union’s missed chances in my head. That plastic seat imprint stayed on my backside for hours. Worth every stiff muscle though.