Good morning supporters of the Jupiler League. There are another three clashes today with all attention on the games between Anderlecht and Gent! Not much is at stake in the other two games but it remains to be seen how those teams will cope with their recent disappointments. Analytically…
Genk – Germinal
Genk have played as expected to date to make life difficult for Standard and their rivals in the battle for top spot. They have had some exceptional group results and in combination with those around them slipping up, deservedly find themselves in a Europa League play-off against Westerlo. Ahead of today’s game, de Bruyne, Joao Carlos, Joneleit and Camus are doubtful. Germinal end a season that began so well in the worst possible manner given their relatively poor results and displays in the group phase. I wouldn’t count out them causing an upset today but even an indifferent Genk have to be considered favourites. Geurden, Goor and King are ruled out, while de Decker makes his return.
History: 02-03 (5-2), 03-04 (1-1), 04-05 (2-1), 05-06 (1-0), 06-07 (4-0), 07-08 (1-3), 08-09 (1-1), 09-10 (1-1)
Selection: I think the hosts are favourites but not for a large stake.
Charleroi – Standard Liege
This game is a clash of two disappointing teams at Charleroi. The Zebras conclude yet another disappointing season but at least they didn’t begin it with high and utopian ambitions of yesteryear. They did what was required of them to avoid relegation but without pressing on for anything further, and even today’s game looks unlikely for them to win despite the poor state of both clubs competing. Standard have only won 2 of their 5 games, which wasn’t enough for them to finish at the top of their group, which leaves Genk with the possibility of vying for that Europa League ticket. The summer transfer period and whatever changes are to take place in the summer are awaited to see what improvements can be made for the following season. Witsel is ruled out of today’s game.
History: 02-03 (3-3), 03-04 (0-1), 04-05 (0-0), 05-06 (0-0), 06-07 (2-5), 07-08 (2-1), 08-09 (1-0), 09-10 (2-3)
Selection: this game is for small flutters so my bet will be on the draw with handicap 1:0.
Anderlecht – Gent
Anderlecht are still in a celebratory mood as they picked up their 30th league title in their history without much fuss. This may turn out to be a negative ahead of today’s clash against Gent, as the visitors desperately need the win if they are to have any chance of qualifying for the Champions League. Kouyate and Legear are doubtful, while Kanu and de Sutter are still undergoing treatment. Gent defeated Club and Sint Truiden to open the way for them to gain a gap on their rivals. But they will have a tough task today, as the quality of the hosts is not disputed within Belgium. Thijs is doubtful.
History: 02-03 (2-2), 03-04 (2-0), 04-05 (2-0), 05-06 (3-0), 06-07 (1-0), 07-08 (2-1), 08-09 (2-2), 09-10 (1-1)
Selection: A realistic result would be the draw at very reasonable odds. |
