Last weekend, Belgium was the scene of an exciting moment and of great sportsmanship during the game between Genk and RFC Liège’s under-23 teams in the second division of Belgian football. The meeting, which ended with Genk’s 3-1 victory, was marked by a rare gesture: 21-year-old goalkeeper Brent Stevens defended a penalty and was applauded standing and greeted warmly by opposing supporters.
What made this moment even more special was the personal context of the young goalkeeper. Stevens, who made his debut in a professional league, was living a particularly difficult week due to his father’s death. The match started with a minute of silence in his memory, a symbolic gesture that made the game even more emotional for everyone involved.
The highlight happened in the 73 minute, when Genk already won by 3-0. Stevens exemplary defended a penalty that could have increased the advantage for opponents, but his response was applauded even by Liège supporters, a gesture of respect and admiration for his professionalism. Moved, the goalkeeper went to the bench, where he received a warm hug from one of the fans, a moment that touched everyone present.
🫶 | Brent Stevens saves a penalty and celebrates the fans of RFC Liège. This is why we love football! 🥰💫
– Dazn Belgium (@dazn_benl)
After the game, Brent Stevens shared his thanks on social networks: “Happy to have made my debut as a professional after a very difficult week. Thanks for all the support! Also a very big thank you to the Liège and Genk fans.” His posture and resilience in the face of such a delicate situation were widely praised, making this moment a true lesson of humanity in sport.
