Former Schalke 04 goalkeeper enjoys strong debut as Anderlecht keep play-off ambitions alive | OneFootball

Justin Heekeren was given his first start for Anderlecht when the side faced Gent in the Belgian Pro League Champions Play-offs this past weekend. The former Schalke 04 goalkeeper joined Anderlecht in January but has had to wait patiently for his first appearance. However, the 25-year-old from Germany certainly had a positive impact on the game. He made five saves to keep Gent at bay. Heekeren kept his side in the game at 1-0 down, and the Mauves were able to take advantage of their goalkeepers performance by going on to win the game 3-1. The victory keeps their hopes of European football alive, although they do also have a route to Europe through the cup.

Heekeren was brought in as a back up to Colin Coosemans, the experienced Anderlecht captain who himself originally came in as a back-up but has made the number one spot his own. However, Heekeren’s first appearance has put some pressure on Coosemans, who is currently negotiating a new deal with Anderlecht. Prior to joining the Mauves, Heekeren played for Schalke 04 after coming through at Oberhausen. During the 2023/2024 season he spent some time on loan at Patro Eisden. On his return to Schalke 04, the goalkeeper made 31 appearances. 30 of these came during the 2024/2025 season, but he found himself on the bench during the current campaign.

Now, with a strong performance this weekend, Heekeren has shown that there may well be competition for places amongst Anderlecht’s goalkeepers.

GBeNeFN | Ben Jackson