A memorable football weekend had its absolute climax with a wildly exciting final day in Drongen. The sun was out again and thousands of supporters flocked to enjoy top-class football, atmosphere and top-class talent. More than 14,000 visitors found their way to the eighth edition of the Kevin De Bruyne Cup between Friday and Sunday-an absolute record.
Some visitors can still collect their leftover tombola prize. The prizes left behind were for the following numbers: 289 blue, 317 blue and 253 blue. If you still wish to obtain this prize, please contact us at info@kdbcup.be and attach a photo of your winning ticket + include 'Tombola KDB Cup' in the title.
Tension until the last minute
On the field, the teams again gave their very best on day two. The semi-finals produced two crackers: FC Barcelona dealt with Paris Saint-Germain in a hard-fought match, while Club Brugge took the upper hand against Chelsea FC. Both teams had already impressed in the group stage and quarter-finals, and simply continued that streak.
The grand final between Barça and Club Brugge was a worthy finale to a top weekend. The Spaniards eventually came out on top and could raise the coveted trophy in the air after the final whistle. FC Barcelona can thus call themselves the new champions of the KDB Cup.
Recognition for sportsmanship and talent
Besides the hard-fought matches, there was also room for individual and team trophies. LOSC Lille received the fair play trophy for their exemplary attitude on and off the pitch.
Dear shooter
Club Brugge's Matteo Soria was crowned top shooter of the tournament. In his reaction, he said he was very happy with the trophy and would like to follow in the footsteps of other Brugge pros such as Talbi, Sabbe and De Ketelaere. They all once stood at the KDB Cup as well.
Good feet and safe hands
Bayer Leverkusen goalkeeper Yaron Ommer proved his class and was voted best goalkeeper. He particularly distinguished himself in the build-up with measured passing and calmness on the ball.
Fermin Lopez 2.0
The MVP of the tournament was FC Barcelona's Hugo Garces Lagunas, who excelled both technically and mentally throughout the weekend. "My personal highlight was the equaliser against PSG in the semi-final, but being able to put the cup in the air together with the team is of course unforgettable. I will frame my jersey in my room I think."
Warm farewell to a recording edition
Although the sun played some hide-and-seek, the enthusiasm of the audience did not let itself be dampened. It was sometimes a bit drumming and shoving with the crowds, but that did not bother anyone. Families, ex-pros, scouts and football-loving visitors from home and abroad visibly enjoyed the unique atmosphere and high-level youth football.
Tournament director Carl took the floor at the end of the day to thank everyone: from the youth players and their coaches to the sponsors, volunteers and, of course, the loyal audience. In his closing words, he also revealed that Kevin De Bruyne was very disappointed not to be able to attend this year, but conveyed his support and pride about the eighth edition through a personal message.
Appointment in 2026
Those already looking forward to the next edition can mark 30 and 31 May 2026 in their diaries. Because if it depends on the KDB Cup organisation, edition nine will be at least as legendary as this one.