info@fcirlande.org
FC Irlande’s women’s side delivered a spirited performance on Saturday against BX Brussels but ultimately fell short, losing 3–2 in a match that could have gone either way.
The visitors started the game brightly, dominating possession and creating the first real chances. Their early pressure paid off in the 18th minute with a moment of brilliance: left winger Albana Parubaj launched a superb cross-field ball to Sacha Vanderveken on the opposite flank. Vanderveken controlled it on her chest before finishing to give FC Irlande a well-deserved 1–0 lead.
The joy was short-lived, however. Barely a minute later, BX Brussels equalized in somewhat controversial fashion — the match sheet credited the goal as an own goal by goalkeeper Olatz, though it remained unclear whether the ball had fully crossed the line.
BX Brussels then found a stroke of luck, taking the lead 2–1 in the 44th minute after a deflected effort wrong-footed the defense. Just before halftime, a harsh penalty decision went against FC Irlande, allowing the home side to extend their advantage to 3–1.
Despite the setback, FC Irlande refused to give up. The team continued to press high and attack with determination, and their efforts were rewarded in the 78th minute when Florence Delacre fired home to make it 3–2. The final stages saw Irlande pushing hard for an equalizer, but BX Brussels managed to hold on until the final whistle.
It was a frustrating defeat for FC Irlande, who showed great character, creativity, and fighting spirit throughout the match — and who arguably deserved more from their performance.