Ghanaian midfielder Abu Francis played a pivotal role in Cercle Brugge’s narrow 1-0 triumph over FCV Dender EH in the Belgian First Division A.
The match, held at the Dender Football Complex on January 18, saw Cercle secure their second win of the New Year, thanks to a solitary strike from defender Diakité.
Francis was instrumental in the decisive moment, delivering a well-timed assist in the 28th minute. A set-piece situation turned chaotic in Dender’s box, allowing Diakité to capitalize on Francis’s precision pass and calmly find the back of the net.
Despite playing with a numerical advantage after Dender’s early red card, Cercle struggled to break down their resilient opponents. The second half was a cagey affair, with few clear-cut chances for either side. Francis attempted a long-range effort late in the game but couldn’t double Cercle’s lead.
Cercle’s defense held firm, with goalkeeper Delanghe making crucial saves to preserve the clean sheet. This victory inches Cercle closer to the playoff spots as they prepare for a tough encounter with Charleroi next week.
