Ghana’s Denis Odoi scores but sees red as Royal Antwerp draw 2-2 with Anderlecht in Belgian Cup thriller

Ghana veteran defender Denis Odoi found the back of the net but later saw red as Royal Antwerp battled to a 2-2 draw against RSC Anderlecht in a gripping Belgian Cup semi-final second leg on Thursday.

Entering the match trailing by a goal from the first leg, Royal Antwerp needed a spirited comeback to keep their cup hopes alive.

Denis Odoi, who started the match, sparked hope for the hosts in the 26th minute with a crucial equaliser, latching onto an assist from Tjarron Chery to bring the game level.

However, Royal Antwerp’s lead was short-lived as Anderlecht struck back swiftly in the 32nd minute through Yari Verschaeren. The match took another dramatic turn just before halftime when Odoi received his second yellow card, reducing Antwerp to ten men.

Despite the numerical disadvantage, Royal Antwerp showed resilience, and in the 86th minute, Gyrano Kerk, with an assist from Vincent Janssen, put them ahead once again. Yet, Anderlecht refused to relent, with Leander Dendoncker scoring a late equalizer in stoppage time to secure a 2-2 draw, ultimately sending Anderlecht into the finals of the Belgian Cup.

It was a night of mixed emotions for Denis Odoi, who showcased his scoring ability but also left his team battling with ten men in a tense semi-final clash.