Walter Meeuws

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Walter Meeuws (born July 11, 1951) is a Belgian former football player and manager. Born in Gierle, Belgium, Meeuws began his career as a defender with VC Gierle before moving to KRC Mechelen, Beerschot AC, FC Bruges, Standard Liège, and Ajax Amsterdam.

Meeuws' most notable stint was at Ajax Amsterdam from July 1984 to September 1985. During this time, he played for the club in various competitions, including the Eredivisie. He also represented Belgium internationally, earning 52 caps and participating in several major tournaments, including the European Football Championship.

Meeuws' greatest success came when he was part of the Belgian national team that reached the final of the European Championship in 1980. The team, led by coach Guy Thys, defeated Germany 2-1 in a penalty shootout after the match ended 1-1 after extra time. Meeuws played on the defensive specialist formation alongside Jean-Marie Pfaff, Eric Gerets, Luc Millecamps, and Michel Renquin.

In addition to his playing career, Meeuws also had success as a coach. He began his coaching career at SK Lierse in 1987 before becoming assistant coach of the Belgian national team. In 1992, he was appointed manager of Royal Antwerp, leading the club to several titles, including the Belgian cup and European Cup Winners' Cup runner-up.

Meeuws also had a notable stint as manager of Raja de Casablanca in Morocco, winning the CAF Champions League title in 1993. He continued to coach at various clubs, including Lierse, before retiring from management.

Throughout his career, Meeuws was recognized for his achievements with several awards, including the Belgian Sports Merit Award and Bélgique Manager de l'année in 1992-1993.