Zwolle edges Brugge in entertaining friendly encounter

PEC Zwolle and Cercle Brugge served up an entertaining friendly at the MAC3PARK stadium, with the hosts ultimately prevailing in a match that offered plenty for both managers to work with ahead of the new season. The Dutch side controlled large periods of play while their Belgian visitors proved dangerous on the break, creating a competitive fixture that went beyond a typical pre-season run-out.

Cercle Brugge struck first when K. Kouassi found the back of the net in the 30th minute, giving the away side an early foothold in the contest. Zwolle responded with the attacking verve expected of a home team and gradually took control, eventually turning the match on its head with two goals before the interval to take a 2-1 lead into the break. The momentum shift proved decisive as the hosts extended their advantage further in the second half to reach 3-1, though Brugge showed character by pulling one back late on to make it 3-2 and set up a tense finale.

Despite Cercle's late pressure, Zwolle held firm to secure the victory. The home side's ability to move the ball quickly and create space in midfield proved the difference over 90 minutes, while their defence stood up when it needed to most. Brugge's attacking quality will encourage their coaching staff, but they fell short of finding the final breakthrough.

For Zwolle, this win represents solid preparation for the campaign ahead and should provide confidence heading into their opening fixtures. Brugge, meanwhile, will use the experience as motivation to build on their attacking play while tightening their defensive shape ahead of their competitive matches.