Match Summary
Antwerp defeated AEK Athens FC 2:1. The match was played in UEFA Champions League 2023. Goals were scored by G. Kerk 73′, S. Araújo 90′, M. Balikwisha 90′. 1 yellow cards were shown. AEK Athens FC had 63% possession while Antwerp held 37%. AEK Athens FC had 18 shots (3 on target) compared to 7 (3 on target) for Antwerp. AEK Athens FC made 5 substitutions, Antwerp made 4.
Match Events
Key match events between AEK Athens FC and Antwerp — 3 goals and 1 cards recorded during the match.
assist: M. Balikwisha
assist: N. Eliasson
Match Statistics
AEK Athens FC had 63% possession against Antwerp's 37%. AEK Athens FC registered 18 shots (3 on target) while Antwerp managed 7 (3 on target). Corner kicks: 9–1. Fouls committed: 12–7.
Lineups
AEK Athens FC lined up in a 4-3-1-2 formation under M. Almeyda, while Antwerp deployed a 4-2-3-1 under M. van Bommel.
Squad Ratings
The overall squad rating for AEK Athens FC is 6.95, compared to 6.95 for Antwerp. This metric is derived from each player's average match rating across all league appearances this season — anything above 7.00 is considered strong, while below 6.50 signals inconsistency. AEK Athens FC's highest-rated starter is O. Pineda (7.40), while Antwerp's best-rated player is M. Balikwisha (7.03).
Attacking Output
The starting XI of AEK Athens FC have contributed 5 goals and 6 assists this season, led by O. Pineda (4G). Antwerp's starters account for 8 goals and 5 assists, spearheaded by V. Janssen (7G). Goals reflect clinical finishing and chance creation, while assists highlight the ability to unlock defences through through-balls, crosses, and set pieces.
Defensive Solidity
AEK Athens FC deploy 4 defenders rated 6.93 on average, against Antwerp's 4-man backline averaging —. Higher defensive ratings suggest better positional awareness, fewer individual errors, and a greater likelihood of keeping clean sheets. The rating accounts for tackles won, interceptions, aerial duels, and blocks throughout the season.
Midfield Control
AEK Athens FC field 4 midfielders averaging 7.40, versus Antwerp's 5 rated 7.03. Midfield ratings reflect passing accuracy, interceptions, key passes, and overall control of possession — the team that dominates midfield typically dictates the tempo and territory of the match.
Forward Threat
AEK Athens FC start 2 forward(s) averaging 6.53, compared to 1 for Antwerp averaging 6.86. Forward ratings capture shot accuracy, movement off the ball, dribbling success, and involvement in build-up play — they indicate who carries the greater goal threat on the day.
Passing & Build-Up
Passing accuracy averages 49% for AEK Athens FC and 78% for Antwerp. Higher passing accuracy generally indicates a possession-based style with patient build-up through the thirds, while lower figures may suggest a more direct, counter-attacking approach with long balls and quick transitions.
Discipline
AEK Athens FC's starters have collected 21 yellow cards this season, compared to 6 for Antwerp. Yellow cards reflect how aggressively a team presses and tackles — a high count may indicate a physical, high-pressing style but also risks suspensions and late free-kicks in dangerous areas.
Age & Experience
The average age of AEK Athens FC's starting XI is 30.2 (youngest: L. Rota (28), oldest: D. Vida (36)), while Antwerp average 27.5 (youngest: M. Balikwisha (24), oldest: V. Janssen (31)). Younger squads typically offer pace, energy, and pressing intensity, while experienced lineups bring composure, game management, and the ability to handle high-pressure moments.
Squad Depth
AEK Athens FC's starters average 16 league appearances each, versus 16 for Antwerp. High appearance counts indicate an established, well-drilled unit that the manager trusts week in and week out. Lower figures may suggest rotation, injuries, or emerging players still earning their place in the team.
Substitutes
Substitutes
Recent Form
In their last 6 matches, AEK Athens FC have recorded 3 wins, 3 draws and 0 defeats. Antwerp show 1 wins, 2 draws and 3 losses from their last 6 outings.
AEK Athens FC
Antwerp
API data: 15 Mar 2026