Belgium: Gent victorious against Mechelen

(GSM) – Gent remain near the top of the Belgian Pro League following a 3-1 victory over Mechelen on Saturday.

Elimane Coulibaly scored the opener in Gent’s favour after 38 minutes and Zlatan Ljubijankic added a second nine minutes after the interval.

Jonathan Wilmet pulled one back for Mechelen in the 81st minute, but Tim Smolders restored Gent’s advantage from the penalty spot two minutes later.

Mechelen were a man down by the end of the match as Christian Benteke was sent off in the 87th minute.

Gent are now one point behind leaders Genk, who will host defending champions Anderlecht on Sunday.