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Tensions boiled over in the Brugge derby as Club Brugge midfielder Ardon Jashari ignited a mass brawl by attempting to plant his team’s flag in the center of the pitch after their 3-1 victory over Cercle Brugge.
Sunday's clash, played at Cercle’s ground, saw Club Brugge dominate their fierce rivals with a commanding first-half display. Goals from captain Hans Vanaken and a brace from Ferran Jutgla put the visitors 3-0 ahead before Ibrahim Diakite pulled one back for the hosts.
However, the drama truly unfolded after the final whistle. Jashari, fired up from the win, retrieved a Club Brugge flag from the away supporters and sprinted toward the center circle. His attempt to stake the flag into the turf was met with immediate fury from Cercle Brugge players. Goalkeeper Maxime Delanghe was particularly incensed, kicking the flag away from Jashari’s hands before carrying it off in protest.
The moment sparked a chaotic melee as players from both sides rushed in, shoving and shouting in a heated confrontation. Jashari found himself at the center of Cercle’s anger, with his teammates quickly intervening to defuse the situation. Meanwhile, the home crowd voiced their discontent, loudly booing the Club Brugge midfielder.
The incident drew comparisons to Graeme Souness’ infamous flag-planting stunt after Galatasaray’s 1996 victory over Fenerbahce, which nearly triggered a riot. While Jashari’s actions didn’t escalate to that extent, they certainly added another layer of animosity to an already fierce rivalry.
Despite the post-match chaos, Club Brugge fans will likely relish Jashari’s display of passion, while Cercle Brugge supporters will see him as public enemy number one. The victory keeps Club Brugge in second place in the league and serves as a morale boost ahead of their Champions League second-leg tie against Aston Villa.
Featured Image Credit: Unsplash / Terrace Grain, Instagram / @clubbrugge
