KRC Genk loses 4-0 to Bayer Leverkusen in pre‑season friendly

KRC Genk travelled to Germany for a pre‑season friendly against Bayer 04 Leverkusen at the Ulrich‑Haberland‑Stadion. Ticket sales were limited to Leverkusen supporters, so Genk fans could only follow the match via a livestream that required a club account. The Belgian side fielded new signings Durosinmi and Erenbjerg while midfielder Konstantinos Karetsas was confirmed to leave for Borussia Dortmund.

Leverkusen dominated, scoring four goals – an early strike by Nathan Tella, followed by goals from Moreira and a header from Kofana – to secure a 4‑0 victory. Goalkeeper Lucca Brughmans kept Genk’s deficit from widening further with several saves. Jess Thorup made numerous tactical changes, including a switch to five defenders and several substitutions, but could not overturn the deficit. The loss serves as a warning for Genk ahead of the Jupiler Pro League start, with a final friendly against FC Twente scheduled before the season opener against Zulte Waregem.