Analysis The numbers behind the result
Union St. Gilloise clinical edge seals dominant win
The result was emphatically deserved for Union St. Gilloise, who converted their chances with ruthless efficiency. Despite a near-equal share of possession (51% vs 49%), the Belgian side created significantly higher-quality opportunities, evidenced by their 14 shots inside the box compared to Plzen's 8. Union St. Gilloise's clinical finishing was decisive, with 13 shots on target from 22 total attempts, translating into three goals. Plzen, in contrast, managed just 5 shots on target from 14 total efforts, failing to capitalize on their 5 corner kicks.
Relebohile Mofokeng opened the scoring in the 17th minute, assisted by Massire Sylla, before Mateo Biondic doubled the lead just before half-time, with Louis Patris providing the assist. Ondrej Kricfalusi sealed the victory in the 59th minute, finishing off a Besfort Zeneli assist. Union St. Gilloise's defensive discipline was also pivotal, committing just 11 fouls and conceding only 1 corner. Plzen's struggles were compounded by a lack of penetration, with only 8 shots inside the box, and their two yellow cards reflecting their frustration.
The key stat explaining the outcome was Union St. Gilloise's shot accuracy, with 13 of their 22 attempts on target, a stark contrast to Plzen's 5 on target from 14 shots.