Anderlecht shut out Rapid

Solid defending
Lacking a number of key players through injury, Anderlecht defended solidly throughout in the face of some strong pressure from Rapid. The home side started aggressively and went close to taking the lead after seven minutes, with Daniel Niculae's effort forcing a good save from Anderlecht goalkeeper Daniel Zitka.

Anderlecht come back
However, the visitors came back strongly and Nenad Jestrovic squandered a golden chance to score a priceless away goal three minutes later, while strike partner Aruna Dindane caused a number of problems for the Rapid defence.

Jestrovic close again
None the less, Rapid continued to press forward, and Florin Bratu shot wide when well placed inside the area. Anderlecht relied on swift counterattacks, with Ki-Hyeon Seol, Jestrovic and Dindane all going close while Niculae also saw an effort drift just past the post.

Late drama
The team from Brussels gradually took control after half-time, and Jestrovic wasted another good opportunity a minute past the hour while Anderlecht captain Walter Baseggio had a shot saved by Ibrahim Dossey. However, the home side almost secured a narrow first-leg advantage in the final minute, but substitute Henry Olufosoye Makinwa's header flew centimetres wide.