Standard Liège Stage Late Comeback Against Lokeren in Belgian Playoff Thriller
Standard Liège salvaged a dramatic 2-2 draw at home against Lokeren on Thursday night in the fourth round of the Belgian Pro League championship playoffs, maintaining their slender lead at the top of the table.
The hosts found themselves in deep trouble after Tunisian forward Hamdi Harbaoui struck twice for Lokeren, netting in the 44th and 64th minutes to put the visitors firmly in control. However, Standard responded with renewed intensity in the final half-hour, as Michy Batshuayi pulled one back in the 68th minute before Yoni Buyens set up Mujangi Bia for the equaliser just four minutes from time.
While the comeback showcased the team’s resilience, frustration was evident among the Standard players at the final whistle.
Speaking to Voo Foot, midfielder Paul-José Mpoku expressed disappointment with the result and his side’s slow start. “One point, away or at home, is not enough for us, who have objectives,” said the Congolese-born player. “We had to take all three points tonight. The positive was the mentality in the second half — we need to start our next game with that same intensity.”
Mpoku acknowledged that the team’s tendency to respond only after conceding is becoming a concern. “It’s frustrating to react instead of acting. It annoys me, it annoys us. We have to rectify that internally. If you want the title, you have to show it from the start, not in the 45th minute.”
Despite dropping points, Standard Liège remain top of the playoff standings, one point ahead of Club Brugge and two clear of Zulte Waregem, keeping their title hopes alive as the race tightens.
Lokeren, for their part, will take encouragement from their performance, especially from Harbaoui’s clinical display. The Tunisian striker continues to underline his credentials as one of the league’s most consistent goal-scorers. Lokeren had looked on course for their first playoff win, but their defensive frailties were once again exposed in the closing stages.
Both sides now turn their attention to critical fixtures ahead. Standard face a tough away trip to Club Brugge, a match that could prove pivotal in the title race. For manager Guy Luzon, improving his side’s early-game mentality will be key if they are to maintain their position at the summit.
The Belgian Pro League playoffs are known for their unpredictable nature, and Thursday’s fixture served as a reminder that every point will count in what promises to be a closely contested run-in.
