
UEFA Europa League
5:45 p.mMarch 19, 2026
Round of 16

SC Freiburg*5 – 1
VAT:(2-1)
Added:(5-2)

GenkEuropa Park Stadium
Referee: Michael Oliver, England


SC Freiburg


Genk
Turn off the spoiler to see match stats
1.95
Expected Goals (xG)
1.06
-2.00
Prevented goals
-2.00
Passing by
332 (82%)
Accurate passes
409 (87%)
Turn off the spoiler to see the events of the match
26
G
Tobias Okiki Lawal
5.3
18
d
Joris Kayembe
6.3
44
d
Joshua Ndenge Kongolo
6.0
27
d
Ken Nkuba
5.3
m
Ibrahima Sory Bangoura
32
m
Noah Adedeji-Sternberg
6.3
m
Dan Heymans
8
m
Bryan Heynen (C)
6.7
m
Konstantinos Karetsas
23
F
Aaron Bibout
6.0

UEFA Europa League Ranking – UEFA Europa League
Qualification/Relegation
- Promotion – Europa League (Play Off: Round of 16)
- Promotion – Europa League (Play Off: 1/16 final)
SC Freiburg dealt a crushing blow to Genk, securing a dominant 5-1 victory at the Europa-Park-Stadion in their UEFA Europa League clash. Defender Matthias Ginter headlined the performance, setting the stage for a memorable night.
This decisive triumph marked a crucial step for Freiburg in its European journey. Both teams came into the contest with a big bet, aiming to take control of the knockout tie. Freiburg, using their home advantage, looked to make a significant statement.
The Bundesliga side wasted little time in asserting their authority. Matthias Ginter broke the deadlock in the 19th minute, powerfully heading home a pinpoint cross from Vincenzo Grifo, sending the home crowd into raptures.
Freiburg quickly extended their lead just six minutes later. Igor Matanović took advantage of Ginter’s excellent organization, placing the ball confidently past the Genk keeper in the 25th minute. Matanović, however, received an early yellow card for a foul in the 30th minute.
Despite Freiburg’s control, Genk found some hope before the break. Matte Smets managed to pull a goal back for the Belgian visitors in the 39th minute. Konstantinos Karetsas provided the assist, injecting some uncertainty into the proceedings. J. Beste from Freiburg also saw yellow in the 44th minute.
At half-time, Freiburg held a 2-1 lead, but Genk’s late strike reminded them of the threat. Christian Streich’s team had to maintain their high intensity and defensive discipline to avoid any possible comeback from their rivals.
The second half started with Freiburg quickly re-establishing their dominance. Vincenzo Grifo, a constant threat, scored his third goal in the 53rd minute. His well-taken shot restored a comfortable two-goal cushion for the German side.
The game turned into a rout just minutes later. Yuito Suzuki brilliantly found the net in the 57th minute, completing a quick attacking move with an assist from Johan Manzambi. A spell of yellow cards followed that goal, with Grifo, D. Heymans and Manzambi all booked around the 58th and 59th minutes.
The match became increasingly physical, reflected in several yellow cards. Genk introduced new legs with a triple substitution in the 69th minute, including I. Bangoura, who had previously received a yellow card. Freiburg countered with their own changes in the 71st minute, bringing on the likes of Lukas Holer, who was later booked in the 76th minute for carrying out.
Freiburg put the finishing touches on their emphatic victory in the 79th minute. Maximilian Eggestein scored the fifth goal, with Yuito Suzuki once again providing the ball. This showcased Freiburg’s depth and relentless attacking prowess right to the end.
Freiburg’s victory was based on clinical finishing as they converted 6 shots on goal into 5 goals from their 14 total attempts. His expected goals (xG) of 1.95 significantly represented his actual production. Genk, despite controlling more possession (54%) and registering 13 shots, managed only 3 on target and an xG of 1.06, highlighting their inefficiency in front of goal.
This impressive 5-1 win sends Freiburg into the next phase of the UEFA Europa League with confidence. Their formidable attacking display ensures they will be a force to be reckoned with, while Genk face a period of introspection after a tough night in Germany.

