Once again, the helicopter is ready and waiting. Its mission? To transport the Belgian league trophy to the victor of another nail-biting three-team battle for the title, hoping to replicate the thrilling conclusion of last season.
Across European soccer, fans are treated to intense title races this month. The showdown between Arsenal and Manchester City in England will grab headlines, while in Scotland, Turkey, and Portugal, historic city rivalries are taking center stage.
However, the most gripping drama might unfold in Belgium for the second consecutive year when the final round of matches is played on May 26.
Last June 4, the league witnessed an unforgettable climax as three different teams took turns leading the standings in the final six minutes of the season.
A thunderous 20-meter shot from Toby Alderweireld in stoppage time secured Royal Antwerp’s first league title in 66 years with a dramatic 2-2 draw against Genk, snatching the trophy away from the home team.
For a brief moment, Genk had the title within reach, only to see their hopes dashed when Union Saint-Gilloise surrendered a one-goal lead to Club Brugge, eventually losing 3-1.
Hovering over Union’s stadium near Brussels, a helicopter carried league CEO Lorin Parys, the championship trophy, and a 16-year-old boy involved in a Make-A-Wish Foundation project, with a police escort waiting below.
