Match Summary
Gent defeated Žilina 5:2. The match was played in UEFA Europa Conference League 2023. Goals were scored by A. Hjulsager 30′, H. Cuypers 62′, A. Kaprálik 66′, T. Tissoudali 69′, P. Gerkens 72′, K. Bari 77′, H. Cuypers 89′. 4 yellow cards were shown. Žilina had 10 shots (4 on target) compared to 10 (6 on target) for Gent. Žilina made 5 substitutions, Gent made 4.
Match Events
Key match events between Žilina and Gent — 7 goals and 4 cards recorded during the match.
Match Statistics
Žilina had possession against Gent's . Žilina registered 10 shots (4 on target) while Gent managed 10 (6 on target). Corner kicks: 6–3. Fouls committed: 11–7.
Lineups
Žilina lined up in a 3-4-3 formation under J. Hynek, while Gent deployed a 4-1-4-1 under H. Vanhaezebrouck.
Squad Ratings
The overall squad rating for Žilina is 6.91, compared to 7.50 for Gent. 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. Žilina's highest-rated starter is A. Kaprálik (7.20), while Gent's best-rated player is T. Watanabe (8.70).
Attacking Output
The starting XI of Žilina have contributed 2 goals and 3 assists this season, led by K. Bari (1G). Gent's starters account for 2 goals and 0 assists, spearheaded by T. Watanabe (2G). Goals reflect clinical finishing and chance creation, while assists highlight the ability to unlock defences through through-balls, crosses, and set pieces.
Defensive Solidity
Žilina deploy 3 defenders rated 6.75 on average, against Gent's 2-man backline averaging 8.70. 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
Žilina field 3 midfielders averaging 7.15, versus Gent's 5 rated 6.30. 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
Žilina start 4 forward(s) averaging 6.79, compared to 3 for Gent averaging —. 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 43% for Žilina and 42% for Gent. 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
Žilina's starters have collected 2 yellow cards this season, compared to 0 for Gent. 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 Žilina's starting XI is 24.2 (youngest: S. Gidi (21), oldest: J. Minárik (28)), while Gent average 29.0 (youngest: T. Watanabe (28), oldest: P. Gerkens (30)). 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
Žilina's starters average 11 league appearances each, versus 1 for Gent. 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, Žilina have recorded 1 wins, 3 draws and 2 defeats. Gent show 4 wins, 0 draws and 2 losses from their last 6 outings.
Žilina
Gent
API data: 15 Mar 2026