Max Dean delivered a stellar performance, scoring twice to lead KAA Gent to a crucial 3-2 victory over Charleroi on Friday, February 14, 2026. The win propels Gent back into the top six of the Jupiler Pro League as the race for the Champions’ Play-offs heats up.
Rik De Mil returned to his former club, the Stade du Pays de Charleroi, with a Gent side facing several key absences. Kanga was sidelined with a concussion, while Goore was nursing a muscle injury, leading to a starting spot for Dean. Van der Heyden’s suspension too meant a debut for new signing Hashioka in the Gent defense.
Gent started brightly, and Ito opened the scoring early on, converting a Kadri assist to make it 1-0. Despite Charleroi’s growing pressure, Roef in the Gent goal remained largely untroubled in the first half, although Pflücke did hit the woodwork.
The second half saw more drama, with Sonko also striking the post for Gent. Dean then took center stage, first finding the back of the net to extend Gent’s lead, and later converting a penalty to make it 3-1. Keita briefly threatened a comeback for Charleroi, but Gent held on for a vital three points.
This important victory marks a significant turnaround for Gent, who had recently suffered a home defeat to OHL and a draw against La Louvière. The result also represents a setback for Charleroi, who had been experiencing a dip in form following their elimination from the Croky Cup.
The win boosts Gent’s playoff aspirations and provides a positive momentum shift under coach Rik De Mil.
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