Lommel promoted to Belgian Pro League via City Group tie

Lommel secured promotion to the Belgian Pro League after defeating Dender in two legs. The tie ended 2-1 on aggregate with a 1-1 draw at Dender followed by a 1-0 victory at home. Manchester City’s City Group holds a stake in Lommel. Lommel’s promotion was sealed by a 1-0 home win, with the decisive goal scored by Jelle Vossen. Vossen converted from the penalty spot in the 78th minute. Dender had equalized in the first leg through Kévin Farade. The Belgian Pro League now includes Lommel for the 2024-25 season. Lommel last competed in the top flight in the 2021-22 season. Their promotion comes after a 3-0 aggregate win over Francs Borains in the Promotion play-offs. Manchester City’s City Football Group maintains a majority ownership of Lommel. City Group’s involvement dates back to 2019 when they acquired a controlling stake. The partnership aims to develop young players within the City Group structure. Lommel’s head coach, Hans Vander Elst, emphasized the club’s progress under City Group’s guidance. Vander Elst stated the infrastructure and investment have been key to the team’s recent success. The club has also strengthened its squad with players such as Elias Moutha-Keita. Lommel’s next challenge will be preparing for their return to the Belgian Pro League. The club faces fixtures against established teams including RSC Anderlecht and Club Brugge KV in the upcoming season.