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The 1-1 draw in Antwerp crippled Union SG’s chances of winning the Belgian Pro League title for the first time in 88 years
Former Belgium international, Eddy Snelders, saw Victor Boniface’s return to the Royale Union Gilloise team as one of the crucial elements that may secure the Jupiler Pro League title for them.
With a 1-1 draw against Royal Antwerp on Sunday at the Bosuilstadion, Union’s first title celebration in 88 years was somewhat delayed.
Snelders, who was reacting to USG’s draw against Antwerp, sees them as the title favourites when they meet Club Brugge in the final match of the season, and indicated that Boniface’s return to the team would be crucial in securing the title.
The Nigerian forward was deemed unfit to travel with the team for what was supposed to be a pivotal match for the championship decider, but he will be more of a threat when he returns to play Club Brugge.
Meanwhile, Snelders indicated that Antwerp, which is now leading their playoff group, would have a tough game when they go to face Genk.
“Genk benefits from a victory, plus we know that Club and Antwerp are not best friends. Everyone therefore assumes that blue-black Union will not stand in the way of anything,” says the analyst at Sporza, as quoted by Voetbalnieuws.
The 64-year-old mentioned the Nigerian as one of the crucial elements that may ultimately secure them the Belgian crown after many decades.
He added: “Moreover, they can pull themselves up to the thought that guys like Boniface and Teuma might be back by then.”
On Sunday, a victory for the Brussels-based team, and a loss to Antwerp, will hand Karel Geraerts’ troops the Jupiler Pro League title.
Ayomide Oguntimehin
Ayomide holds a Bachelor’s Degree in English and currently works as a News Writer. He has more than five years of experience in digital journalism, with a strong background in researching and writing compelling news.