Match Summary
Gent defeated Žilina 5:1. The match was played in UEFA Europa Conference League 2023. Goals were scored by G. Orban 23′, J. De Sart 55′, H. Cuypers 66′, T. Watanabe 76′, A. Kaprálik 79′, H. Cuypers 85′. 3 yellow cards were shown, 1 red cards. Gent made 5 substitutions, Žilina made 5.
Match Events
Key match events between Gent and Žilina — 6 goals and 4 cards recorded during the match.
Lineups
Gent lined up in a 3-4-3 formation under H. Vanhaezebrouck, while Žilina deployed a 3-4-3 under J. Hynek.
Squad Ratings
The overall squad rating for Gent is 7.57, compared to 6.85 for Žilina. 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. Gent's highest-rated starter is T. Watanabe (8.70), while Žilina's best-rated player is Ľ. Belko (7.16).
Attacking Output
The starting XI of Gent have contributed 4 goals and 2 assists this season, led by T. Watanabe (2G). Žilina's starters account for 1 goals and 2 assists, spearheaded by K. Bari (1G). Goals reflect clinical finishing and chance creation, while assists highlight the ability to unlock defences through through-balls, crosses, and set pieces.
Defensive Solidity
Gent deploy 2 defenders rated 8.70 on average, against Žilina's 2-man backline averaging 6.75. 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
Gent field 5 midfielders averaging 6.76, versus Žilina's 5 rated 7.15. 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
Gent start 3 forward(s) averaging —, compared to 3 for Žilina averaging 6.58. 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 63% for Gent and 43% for Žilina. 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
Gent's starters have collected 5 yellow cards this season, compared to 2 for Žilina. 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 Gent's starting XI is 27.7 (youngest: M. Samoise (24), oldest: D. Roef (31)), while Žilina average 24.4 (youngest: S. Gidi (21), oldest: J. Minárik (28)). 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
Gent's starters average 16 league appearances each, versus 12 for Žilina. 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, Gent have recorded 4 wins, 0 draws and 2 defeats. Žilina show 1 wins, 3 draws and 2 losses from their last 6 outings.
Gent
Žilina
API data: 15 Mar 2026