After Arokodare’s withdrawal, KRC Genk had to finish the match with ten players. After all, Wouter Vrancken had used up his three substitution moments. The fourth ref was immediately asked whether an extra substitution could be allowed because a player had dropped out with a head injury.
But that is not allowed in the Jupiler League. However, the competitions are given the opportunity to introduce this rule after the international body IFAB (International Football Association Board) gave the green light. However, unlike the English Premier League and the Dutch Eredivisie, the Belgian professional league has not (yet) implemented those rules.
Not to hospital
The condition of Arokodare, who came into gentle contact with Cuypers’ head, was still evaluated on Sunday evening. The player did not have to be taken to hospital, but it is not yet clear how long Wouter Vrancken will have to miss his attacker.
Heynen and Van Crombrugge
The Genk coach should have brought his captain to the side at the end of regular playing time. Bryan Heynen had just suffered a new blow to the ankle, which had not emerged unscathed from the match at Fiorentina.
Mike Penders was on the bench as second goalkeeper. Hendrik Van Crombrugge made a wrong save before half-time at Fiorentina and was still in too much trouble to sit on the bench. The injury is not said to be too serious, but it is still unclear whether Van Crombrugge will be fit for the cup match in Ostend. (mg)