Bilal Brahimi continued his standout season with another commanding performance for Sint-Truiden, scoring a spectacular goal and providing a key assist in their crucial 3-1 victory over Cercle Bruges in the Belgian relegation play-downs.
The Algerian winger, currently on loan from French club OGC Nice, was once again the difference-maker in a struggling Saint-Trond side that has had little to cheer this season.
Despite the team’s challenges, Brahimi has emerged as a beacon of consistency, producing moments of real quality throughout the campaign.
Lined up on the right flank, Brahimi was involved from the outset. In the 15th minute, he delivered a pinpoint curling cross into the penalty area, picking out his teammate Bertaccini.
The Belgian forward’s effort, however, was dramatically cleared off the line, denying Brahimi what would have been his fifth assist of the season.
Undeterred, the 25-year-old turned creator again just three minutes later. Picking up the ball near the centre circle, Brahimi surged forward but cleverly halted his run to assess his options.
Spotting Bertaccini’s movement, he released a precise through-ball into the box, and this time the Belgian made no mistake, slotting home the opener in the 18th minute.
Brahimi’s influence only grew as the match progressed. On the stroke of half-time, Bertaccini returned the favour with a lofted pass to the right flank. Brahimi took control with confidence, weaving past two defenders before unleashing a venomous strike that flew past the goalkeeper and into the top corner to double Sint-Truiden’s lead in the 41st minute.
Cercle Bruges pulled one back later in the match, but Sint-Truiden held on to secure a vital win in the relegation round.
The result puts them at the top of the play-down group with two important victories, boosting their hopes of staying in Belgium’s top flight.
Brahimi’s numbers reflect his impact. With an average match rating of 7.47 on SofaScore, two goals and four assists to his name, the former Nice player has been consistently effective since joining the Belgian side.
His performances have sparked conversations about his long-term role, especially considering he was primarily used as a wing-back in Ligue 1.
At Sint-Truiden, Brahimi has thrived in a more advanced role, demonstrating his ability to stretch defences, deliver decisive passes, and score goals of real quality.
His flair and vision were on full display against Cercle Bruges, where he dictated the tempo and led by example in a pressure-filled encounter.
As Sint-Truiden continue their fight for survival, Brahimi’s presence has proven to be a vital asset. With a few matches left in the play-down phase, his contributions could well determine whether the club avoids the drop.
For now, Brahimi’s stock continues to rise in Belgium, and with performances like this, both fans and scouts alike are taking notice of the talented Algerian wide man.
