Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the Belgian Pro League Championship Group match.
Club Brugge
The victory over Anderlecht marked a third consecutive win for the team, although it followed back-to-back setbacks — their only two defeats in the final stage of the Belgian Pro League. The Championship Group fixtures follow a staggered format, and at the crossover point between rounds, Club Brugge faced Royale Union Saint-Gilloise twice. Despite Royale Union Saint-Gilloise finishing the regular season in third place, 13 points behind leaders Genk, they managed to keep Club Brugge goalless in both encounters, collecting four points through a 1:0 win and a goalless draw. As a result, Royale Union Saint-Gilloise now lead the group, holding a one-point advantage over Club Brugge.
Royal Antwerp
Club Brugge must at least defeat Royal Antwerp to keep their title hopes alive. That target appears achievable. Although Royal Antwerp were Belgian champions just two years ago, they have largely played a peripheral role in this season’s title race. Having started the Championship Group stage in fifth, they remain in that position. Only Gent have performed worse. Royal Antwerp have recorded just two wins and two draws in nine matches. They did assist Club Brugge indirectly by defeating Genk 1:0 back in Round 6, but in their most recent outing, Royal Antwerp suffered a 0:4 home defeat to Royale Union Saint-Gilloise.
Club Brugge vs Royal Antwerp Prediction
Club Brugge and Royale Union Saint-Gilloise appear evenly matched in terms of current form. In the reverse fixture earlier in the Championship Group, Club Brugge came away with a 3:2 away win over Royal Antwerp. Playing at home this time, the task should be more manageable. We expect a convincing win for the hosts. Whether it will be enough for the title depends on other results.
