Month: December 2023

For this new section on the ASC UK website, we embark on a journey to connect with passionate supporters of our iconic club. Capturing the essence of what makes Royal Antwerp FC not just a football club, but a source of inspiration and joy for fans in the UK and across the globe.

Read our first Supporters Corner with Dan Miles, die-hard Antwerp Supporter from Bristol!

Arthur Vermeeren, our eighteen-year-old youngster, clinched the “Dominique D’Onofrio” Prize for the top debutant under twenty in the Jupiler Pro League for the 2022-2023 season.

‘Tuurke’s” first-team debut occurred in August 2022 and he contributed significantly to the team winning the Double last year. He continued to shine in Antwerp’s historic qualification for the Champions League. Notably, he captained the team against Porto FC, and in a thrilling final match against FC Barcelona (3-2), he earned the title of Man of the Match.

In addition to his club achievements, Vermeeren received his first national team call-up in October, playing a role in securing European Championship qualification for the Belgian national selection in Germany next year.

His outstanding achievements were reflected in his increased market value, Vermeeren is now the Jupiler Pro League’s MVP, with Transfermarkt.be reporting a value of 30 million euro in their latest update, a rise from €25 million to €30 million.

Van Bommel’s squad aimed to conclude our Champions League journey positively, but little did anyone anticipate the spectacle that unfolded! We caught Barça off guard with a high-tempo, high-quality, and intense approach right from the start. Our 18-year old wonderboy, Arthur Vermeeren, secured a 1-0 lead in under two minutes on the clock! After equalising the game, the second half evolved into a true thriller that went from 2-1 to 2-2 in the 90+1 minute… for Ilenikhena (17-year old!) to pop-up and sealing a historic 3-2 victory in a captivating final phase at minute 90+2! The limelight unquestionably belonged to Royal Antwerp FC. Could anyone have scripted a more fitting exit from the European stage for our Reds?

Yet another standout moment: our Antwerp Supporters! They epitomise Champions League excellence, as also noted by a Spanish newspaper: “The Bosuil Stadium emanates a distinctive old-school English feel and authentic football ambiance.” The extraordinary atmosphere displayed by our Supporters remains mythical. Signed by our legendary legion! 🔴⚪️💪

Today marks the final match of our Reds in the 2023 Champions League group stage, playing Xavi’s Barcelona. While The Great Old faced challenges in the initial match, consecutive strong performances against Shaktar and Porto have elevated the team’s level of play. Coach Mark van Bommel is determined to challenge his good friend Xavi, aiming to replicate our historic first game against Barcelona at the Bosuilstadion: Antwerp emerged victorious with a 2-1 score in the Inter-Cities Fairs Cup. It’s time to evoke the spirit of 1965! Come on You Reds! 🇵🇪💪

R Antwerp FC – Sporting Charleroi: In the past three league games, ‘The Zebra’s’ have posed a challenge for our lads, leading to three consecutive losses. Recognising the necessity to break this negative streak, our Cup holders are determined to achieve it tomorrow, as it is crucial to advance to the quarter-finals of the 2023/2024 Belgian Croky Cup! Come on you Reds 🇵🇪 🏆

While Real Madrid’s – and English – midfielder Jude Bellingham secured a commanding victory in this year’s esteemed Golden Boy Award, we take immense pride in witnessing our homegrown prodigy, Arthur Vermeeren, stand out at an impressive #14 in this significant youth talent competition. Congratulations, Arthur! Your presence on our team fills us with pride, and we extend our heartfelt wishes for a truly magnificent professional football career ahead!